Advanced Cider Making Course

** Course dates just announced for May 2026 **

Overview

The ideal course for those looking to perfect their cider and create specific blends. Run by experienced cider consultant - Bob Chaplin.

The course is a mix of lecture and practical with the opportunity to create your own blend of cider to take home with you. A hearty lunch is included and the whole thing is set in the Courtney's of Whimple orchard (part of the old Whiteways orchards which are over 100 years old). Courtney’s produce around 6,500 litres of cider and 10,000 litres of apple juice each year. A short clip of our cider farm can be viewed HERE.

Course content includes:

• Base Cider & Analysis
• Equipment
• Decisions & Calculations - Your Choice of Cider Style
• Total Acidity
• Calculations
• Blending
• Bottling and Pasteurising

About Bob Chaplin

Having worked in the cider industry for almost fifty years our expert has a wealth of experience. Previously employed for over forty years at The Shepton Mallet Cider Mill during which time he worked in the technical department, New Product Development and many production roles covering the entire process from orchard management to bottling and packaging.

He has also great recent experience working for a start up cider business and acting as a consultant assisting cider makers in the South West.

But it’s not just a job for our guy it’s a passion. He is secretary to The South West of England Cider Makers' Association, is heavily involved in the British Cider Championship at the Bath & West Show and also regularly acts as a cider judge at many competitions.

Course Timings: 9.30am - 3pm (arrive from 9am)

Where: Whimple, Devon. EX5 2PD

Using what3words: premiums.device.keyboards.

Your personal discount code:

You will also receive a '10% OFF' voucher code - valid until 30th November 2026. This can be used for all your purchases during this period at www.vigopresses.co.uk (note: does not apply to purchases of ladders and courses).

Your course voucher will also be emailed to you with your unique reference for the course. 

We will contact you to confirm course timings and any dietary requirements closer to the date of your course.

Note: For refund / cancellation policy please refer to our terms & conditions.