Introduction to apple juice and cider-making course

After several years of running their ‘Introduction to apple juice and cider making’ course in Milton Keynes, Mike & Barbara Jones moved the venue to the ideal tranquil location of the Recreation Ground Hall in Little Horwood. The course is being run for the Midshires Orchard Group (MSOG) and any surplus after costs passed on to MSOG.

We have been making apple juice and cider for more than 10 years and over time have learnt that the quality of the cider depends very much on the varieties of apple used. We now source most apples from our own orchards which have been planted with a wide selection of varieties to produce different ciders.

This theme, the importance of variety, will run through the course, first in apple tasting, then in how to blend apple mixes for pressing. Finally, in the chance to taste several single variety ciders then blend them to get your perfect cider!

Cost: £45 (£35 for MSOG members).

Minimum age: 18

Location: Little Horwood Recreation Ground Hall, Church St, Little Horwood MK170PF

Bring: Apples if you have some (10 kg needed for one gallon). We will have plenty if not. Demijohn and/or clean plastic bottles to take away juice.

Dress: Pressing will be outside, so dress appropriately taking account of the weather and the messy nature of apple pressing.

We will provide: Tea, coffee, soft drinks, biscuits on arrival and later. A simple lunch (soup, ploughmans, fruit, cake). Please let us know of any special requirements. Course notes summarizing the key points outlined in the course. Enough apple juice for you to make a gallon of cider. 2 bottles of cider to take home (you select after sampling!).

How to book: email Mike Jones at Lhmikejones@gmail.com to reserve. I will confirm places are available and indicate how to pay.