Farm Shop | Orchard
Interested in furthering the "local distinctiveness" of its juices and restoring the orchards to their former glory, Cotehele are developing a 'Mother Orchard'. This which introduce apple - and pear and cherry - varieties specific to the Tamar Valley that with its micro-climate, has a rich history of market gardening. Currently Cotehele is running a project whereby anyone can donate and dedicate a tree and then visit each year to see how it's grown.
The cherry orchard is now established and they have planted over 50 different Tamar varieties to enjoy while picnicking under them either at blossom time or during their short fruiting season.
Cotehele apple juice, produced on the estate from the nearby apple orchard, is made from a blend of apple varieties grown on the estate and pressed locally. The varieties are mostly Tamar and Cornish varieties, making it truly of its terroir. Only ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is added to the pure juice.
When judging The National Trust Fine Farm Produce Awards, I noticed the juice's freshness, its silky texture and 'apple pie' flavour
