Tiverton man hosts cider feast in Chagford

A Tiverton man has traded his demolition career for the life of a Devon cider farmer. 

Mike Shorland, who has been making cider off and on since the age of 18, has turned his lifelong dream of planting an orchard into reality. 

This dream has culminated in the creation of Rull Orchard and an upcoming cider feast in Chagford on July 12.

A few years ago, Mike spotted a small field for sale in Bickleigh and seized the opportunity.

He said: “I always dreamed of making cider commercially. When I saw that field for sale, I knew it was my chance.”

The start of the COVID-19 pandemic provided Mike with the motive he needed to leave his demolition career and fully dedicate himself to his orchard.

He founded Rull Orchard with a mission to produce unique, high-quality ciders that showcase the best of Devon. 

He said: “I wanted to create ciders in a special and aspirational way.”

Rull Orchard has already made a mark with its innovative products. 

Mike has crafted a champagne-method cider, several Normandy-style ciders, and two distinct beverages: one aged in a rum barrel and another perry aged in a tequila barrel. 

The latter, named PerryOte, was awarded Best New Drink Product in Devon last year.

The Chagford Inn will host the cider event on July 12, which promises to be an unforgettable experience. 

For £55, attendees will enjoy a five-course meal, each course paired with a different cider or perry from Rull Orchard. 

Mike's champagne-method cider, Starlight, was crowned Supreme Champion Reserve at the Bath and West Show, further showcasing the quality of his creations.

Mike said: “My dream has always been to make real aspirational ciders and juices. Locally sourced, hand-picked fruit, blended together for flavours unlike anything else out there!”