4th June 2009 | Royal Bath and West Awards

Our cider makers have returned from this year’s Royal Bath and West Show (27 – 30 May 2009) with an array of prizes.

Thatchers Dabinett was judged best Single Variety Cider in the Show, followed closely by our Prince William cider in third. Thatchers Dabinett has a rich, sweet aroma with a crisp and balanced, full bodied taste. Pressed from the Dabinett apple, which has long been recognised as an outstanding English cider apple, this cider is slightly sparkling, boasting a rich, golden amber colour.

Thatchers also received first and second places in the Open Sweet and Open Medium classes.

We are also delighted to announce that Paul Dockerty, Thatchers Quality Manager, was presented with the Royal Bath and West Show’s inaugural Coopers Trophy. This trophy is awarded by the Worshipful Company of Coopers for craftsmanship within the cider industry, and was presented to Paul by Nick Herbert, the shadow minister for DEFRA.

“Paul is a master of his craft with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the chemistry and processes of cider making,” says Thatchers Chairman John Thatcher. “He readily shares his knowledge, both within the company and thoughout the cider industry.

“Paul has led a number of research projects for the National Association of Cidermakers and he was the natural choice to represent the Association in the European Cider and Fruit Winemakers Forum.

“His knowledge of his craft is recognised and highly esteemed at home and abroad and we are delighted that he has been honoured with The Coopers Trophy.”

The Royal Bath and West Show celebrates all aspects of rural life, delivering a wonderful mix of established traditional exhibits through to the latest energy technology and contemporary entertainment.