Little Pomona | Art of Darkness

Name of Estate/Domaine:
The cider is produced by Little Pomona Orchard & Cidery, founded by Susanna and James Forbes.

Country/Region:  
England, specifically the Herefordshire region, known for its rich apple-growing heritage.

Grape/Blend: The blend consists primarily of Ellis Bitter (80%) aged in cognac barrels and Dabinett aged in wine barrels. 

Tasting Notes:

• Appearance: Golden yellow with a vibrant hue.
• Aroma: Features a complex nose with hints of damp cave, ripe stone fruits (apricot and peach), spice, and perfume.
• Palate: Balances the influence of oak with juicy fruit flavors, showcasing beautiful freshness and a silky texture. The tannins are soft and reminiscent of wet slate.

Terroir:

The cider is crafted from apples grown in the Forbes' home orchard located in Thornbury, North Herefordshire.

Viticulture: 

• Emphasize sustainable practices in their orchards.
• They grow four classic cider apple varieties, focusing on natural methods to produce ciders that reflect true flavors and character.
  

Vinification: 

• Fermentation: The cider undergoes spontaneous fermentation in tanks before being transferred to barrels.
• Barrel Aging: Aged for approximately 12 months in ex-cognac barrels and wine barrels, allowing for micro-oxidation which softens tannins.
  
• No Additives: The cider is produced without any additions or filtration, maintaining its natural essence. It is also vegan-friendly.
  

Food pairing:

• Baked fish in harissa or paprika sauce
• Roasted courgette gratin
• Aged cheddar or blue cheese (e.g., Stichelton)
• Rich, earthy lentil dishes or rib-eye steak
  

This cider should be served at around 10°C, allowing its complex flavors to shine through when paired with food.