Thatchers Cider

The Thatcher family is a true picture-book family: four generations join forces to produce the popular cider and are involved in every step from the apple tree to the finished drink.

Family matter

Cider has been produced on Myrtle Farm in Sandford for over 100 years. Initially, the apples were pressed using a mechanical press and a lot of muscle power, but later a hydraulic press made the hard work easier. Livestock was kept as a second source of income until 1984. Ultimately, however, it was decided to put all its cards on cider. What the farm has retained to this day are the huge wooden vats in which the cider matures to its fruity splendor. The barrels are made of oak and were made more than 150 years ago. They give the cider its very special character and are the pride and joy of the Thatcher family. The production process has changed and been modernized significantly since the early days, but the recipe is a well-guarded family recipe from the second cider brewer, Stanley Thatcher. Over the past hundred years, the Thatcher cider factory has continued to grow: the apple orchards have grown, the cider has gained international attention and was even named the best cider in the world in 2017. And the future looks bright! Eleanor Thatcher got her tractor license at the age of 16 and is an active part of cider production.

Of bees and flowers

Myrtle Farm is idyllically situated at the foot of the Mendip Hills. Apple orchards stretch across the hilly land as far as the eye can see and are a true paradise for humans and animals. In addition to commercial cultivation, there is an orchard that is solely dedicated to the research and preservation of rare, unusual and delicious apple varieties. Over the years, John Thatcher has collected and planted more than 450 different types of apple trees. In order to constantly improve their cider and develop new, innovative varieties, the Thatchers are always on the lookout for tasty apple varieties. The orchards extend over an incredible 500 acres. The farm's own bees ensure the bountiful harvest. Beehives can be found everywhere in the orchards, and when the apple trees are in bloom there is a lot of activity around them and the air is filled with a majestic hum. To attract other insects such as bumblebees, wildflower fields are sown. On average, it takes around seven years for an apple tree to bear fruit. Each tree requires year-round care: sufficient water, nutrients and professional pruning ensure that the tree can bear fruit for around 40 years. To meet the high demand and support small farmers in the area, the Thatchers buy fruit from their neighboring farms in addition to their own apples.

Thatchers Cider contains a lot of handwork, love and of course good apples!