Are you passionate about crafting your own cider, wine, juice, or beer at home? If so, you're likely already familiar with us at Vigo Presses, as we are the go-to destination for top-quality equipment to aid your homebrewing. BUT, did you know that Vigo Presses offers more than just brewing tools and equipment? We're excited to share that we also provide a wide spectrum of packaging services, ensuring that your delicious creations not only taste great but look good too.

At Vigo Presses, we understand that presentation is important when it comes to enjoying your creations. That's why we created Devon Drinks Solutions, our specialist packaging company, to offer you a hassle-free solution for bottling canning and packing your brews. We launched Devon Drinks Solutions as a trading arm of Vigo Presses, working hand in hand to deliver you the best brewing solutions. Whether you're looking to package cider, beer, wine, juice, or any other beverage, we've got you covered.

Why Choose Our Packaging Services?

Convenience: Say goodbye to the hassle of sorting your own bottles, caps, labels, and packaging for your homebrews. With our packaging services, we will take care of everything for you, saving you time and effort.

Expertise: Our team of specialists at Devon Drinks Solutions has years of experience. They understand the importance of quality and attention to detail, ensuring that your products are packaged perfectly.

Customisation: We offer a range of packaging options to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer traditional glass bottles, aluminium cans of all sizes, or something completely unique, we can accommodate your requirements.

Professional Presentation: Impress your friends, family, colleagues and customers with professionally packaged drinks that look as good as they taste. Our high-quality labels and packaging materials will give your products a polished and professional appearance.

How It Works:

Using Vigo Presses' co-packing services is simple and straightforward. Here's how it works:

Visit Devon Drinks Solutions: Visit our website and complete the contact form outlining details of your enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible to introduce ourselves and discuss your requirements.

Choose Your Packaging: We’ll discuss packaging formats that are available with you, whether it's glass bottles, cans, pouches, bag in boxes or kegs.

Design Your Cans / Labels: Our partners can produce printed cans for you with your own design in any quantities or, if you prefer labels, we can assist with some great contacts for you.

Your Production Slot: Once we have agreed on your full requirements, we will book your production slot. We’ll talk you through the whole process and ensure we are ready to create your final masterpiece.

Filling and Packaging: Sit back and relax as our experts at Devon Drinks Solutions create your professionally finished product to your exact requirements, with precision and care.

Delivery: Once your beverages are packaged and ready to go, we'll arrange for a convenient date for collection, ready for you to enjoy and/or distribute to your customers.

At Vigo Presses, our commitment to helping you create amazing homemade beverages doesn't stop at providing top-quality equipment. With our packaging services at Devon Drinks Solutions, we make it easier than ever to take your beverages to the next level. 

Ready to elevate your brews with professional packaging? Get in touch with Vigo Presses or Devon Drinks Solutions today to learn more about our packaging services and how we can help you showcase your creations in style.

As winter loosens its grip, and the first buds of spring begin to appear, homebrewers are eager to uncork the flavours of their autumn ferments. If you've patiently nurtured your ciders  through the cold months, the time has come to package and share your creations! At Vigo Presses, we understand the anticipation that comes with trying your crafted ciders, and we're here to make sure your packaging is as seamless and stylish as your fermenting process. 

Raise a Glass to Spring with Vigo Presses 

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, it's the perfect moment to package your carefully crafted autumn drinks. Whether it's a crisp cider, a bold red wine, or a spiced ale, Vigo Presses has the equipment you need to ensure your products are presented in their best light. Our selection of bottles and packaging solutions is tailored to meet the diverse needs of homebrewers who appreciate quality and attention to detail. 

Elevate Your Presentation with Vigo Presses Packaging

Vigo Presses offers a range of packaging materials, including bags in boxes, caps, and bottles, allowing you to add a personal touch and make a lasting impression.

Top Picks from Vigo Presses for Packaging Your Brews:

Glass Bottles: Choose from an array of sizes and designs to complement your brew, from classic beer bottles to elegant wine bottles.

Capping Solutions: Ensure a secure seal with our reliable capping tools, including crown caps and screw caps.

Storage and Presentation: Safely store and present your bottles with our durable storage solutions, ensuring they're ready for the spotlight when the occasion arises. 

At Vigo Presses, we share the passion and dedication of homebrewers and cider makers, and our mission is to provide you with the tools you need to make your brewing experience exceptional. As you package your autumn ferments, consider the quality and style that our products bring to your craft. 

Invite your friends, savour the flavours of the changing season, and enjoy the exquisite taste of your handcrafted brews. 

Cheers to the arrival of spring, and happy brewing!

This Valentine's Day, go beyond the ordinary and surprise your loved one with a gift that will create lasting memories. Imagine a day of strolling hand in hand through our beautiful orchards, learning about different apple varieties to make sweet juice and cider. Join us at Courtney's orchards in Devon for a hands-on Apple Pressing and Cider Making Workshop, where you'll not only learn something new but also create a romantic and unique experience.

Delve into the Harvest Delight

Devon, with its charming landscapes and rich agricultural heritage, sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Courtney's orchards, nestled in the heart of Whimple, produce an impressive 6,500 litres of cider and 10,000 litres of apple juice annually. This Valentine's Day, you and your special someone have the opportunity to be part of the harvest delight.

What to Expect?

Upon arrival at the Old Orchards, a warm welcome awaits you from the Courtney's team. Begin your journey with a guided tour through cider orchards, learning about orcharding techniques and discovering the best apple varieties for juice and cider.

Step into the barn to unravel the history of pressing and cider making, as well as our mission to reduce food waste. Then, it's time to get hands-on – pick, wash, mill, and press your own apples. As the aroma of fresh apple juice fills the air, indulge in a unique tasting session that shows the incredible differences between processed and fresh juices, and learn the secrets to making your own cider at home.

But that is not all! A delectable West Country lunch is also included, ensuring you stay fuelled for the adventure ahead.

Make It Yours!

Once you've booked your spot, you'll receive a special voucher by email. This voucher opens the door to a day filled with refreshments, learning, and the chance to buy top-notch equipment to continue your apple-pressing skills at home. You can also explore our range or equipment here.

How to Book?

Spaces are limited, so grab your spot for the 31st of August or the 6th of September 2024. This is more than a workshop; it's a unique experience you and your loved one will enjoy. Book your Apple Pressing and Cider Making experience now.

Surprise your loved one with an unforgettable adventure, unlocking the sweetness together.

Embark on a journey to refine your cider-making skills with Courtney's Apple Pressing and Cider Making Workshop, in collaboration with Vigo Presses. Join us for the March Advanced Course, guided by the expertise of experienced cider consultant, Bob Chaplin, and discover the art of blending and creating consistent, high-quality cider.

Meet Bob Chaplin

Meet Bob Chaplin, our esteemed cider consultant with nearly fifty years of experience in the cider industry. Bob spent over forty years at The Shepton Mallet Cider Mill, contributing to the technical department, New Product Development, and various production roles covering the entire cider-making process – from orchard management to bottling and packaging.

Bob's recent endeavours include working with a start-up cider business and acting as a consultant, assisting cider makers in the South West. Beyond his professional commitments, Bob's passion for cider is evident in his role as the secretary to The South West of England Cider Makers' Association. He is heavily involved in the British Cider Championship at the Bath & West Show and serves as a cider judge at numerous competitions.

Why Choose Courtney's and Vigo Presses?

Courtney’s orchards, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Devon, are the perfect backdrop for refining your cider-making skills. Producing a staggering 6,500 litres of cider and 10,000 litres of apple juice each year, we know a thing or two about turning apples into liquid gold. Vigo Presses and Courtney’s, leaders in cider, rum, gin, apple press manufacturing and more, ensures you're learning from the very best.

Lunch, Learning, and Limited Spaces!

The March Advanced Course promises you will dive into a hands-on experience, fine-tuning your skills under the guidance of experts. Worried that all this cider making might work up an appetite? Fear not – a delicious West Country lunch is included to keep you fuelled and ready for your cider-making day. Plus, with limited spaces available, you’ll have the chance to secure some of the best cider-making equipment to continue your journey at home.

What’s Next for Your Cider Journey?

Ready to elevate your cider craft with expert guidance? Secure your spot for the March Advanced Course now. After securing your spot, you’ll receive a voucher by email with all the details. Remember to confirm your dietary requirements, and leave the rest to us.

Join us for a day filled with laughter, learning, and the promise of turning your cider-making skills into an art form. The March Advanced Course awaits – book now and let’s make your cider dreams come true!

Ever heard of Wassailing? It's not just a merry word; it's a centuries-old English ritual filled with cider, camaraderie, and apple trees! In parts of England (such as Somerset, Devon and Sussex) where apples are grown, especially for cider, Wassailing still takes place on the Old Twelfth Night - 17th January.  At Vigo Presses, where we revel in all things cider-making, Wassailing is more than a tradition - it's a celebration surrounded by history.

Roots of Wassailing

Imagine stepping back to ancient times when Wassailing began as a pagan practice. Fast forward to today, and this age-old custom is making a comeback, thanks to the revival of artisanal cider crafting and a renewed interest in our heritage.

The Wassail Rite

So, what's the buzz about Wassailing? The word itself comes from the Anglo Saxon ‘waes hael’ which means ‘to your health’. It’s a simple yet symbolic ceremony:

1. Crowning the Queen: Picture a young girl, adorned in ivy and white, placing cider-soaked bread in tree branches to treat the local robins.

2. Honouring Nature: Encircling an apple tree, cider is poured on its roots, symbolising wishes for a fruitful harvest.

3. The Chorus of Blessings: Joining together in song, wishing the trees health and abundance for a lavish cider yield in the upcoming year.

4. Joyous Celebrations: Shotguns are fired, pots and pans banged, and tambourines set the rhythm, to ward off any evil spirits and wake up the trees so they give a great crop!

Crafting New Traditions

Here's the exciting part: Wassailing isn't set in stone. Every celebration can be as unique as the people involved. Customs and songs vary, allowing for creative twists and personalised touches to this historic pagan practice.

At Vigo Presses, nestled within our orchard, Wassailing isn’t just about the past—it’s about crafting new folklore, blending heritage with innovation. Join us in raising a glass, toasting to health, and singing for a prosperous harvest:

“Apple tree prosper, bud, bloom and bear,

That we may have plenty of cider next year.

And where there's a barrel, we hope there are ten,

That we may have cider when we come again.

Chorus:

With our wassail, wassail, wassail!

And joy come to our jolly wassail!

A-wassail, a-wassail! The Moon, she shines down;

The apples are ripe and the nuts they are brown.

Whence thou mayest bud, dear old apple tree,

And whence thou mayest bear, we sing unto thee.”

So, next time you think of winter traditions, remember Wassailing—a delightful celebration of community, heritage, and the joy of making cider. Cheers to the timeless spirit of Wassail!

As the New Year approaches, it’s that time again to ponder resolutions and fresh starts. Why not make this upcoming year the time to explore a new hobby? A hobby that not only promises fun and creativity but also gives delicious, homemade beverages. Enter the world of cider making and juicing, two captivating and rewarding hobbies waiting to be explored.

Why Choose Cider Making and Juice Making as Your New Hobby?

Craftsmanship and Creativity: Crafting your own cider or juice allows you to become an artisan in your own right. Experiment with flavours, fruits, and techniques to create beverages uniquely suited to your taste.

Health and Freshness: What’s more refreshing than a glass of freshly pressed juice or a crisp homemade cider? Control the ingredients and ensure the utmost freshness by making your own.

Sustainability and Connection to Nature: Embrace the natural bounty of fruits and harness their flavours. Cider and juice making connect you with the seasons and the abundance of nature.

Community and Sharing: Share your homemade creations with friends and family, sparking conversations and making moments memorable with your signature beverages.

Explore Vigo Presses Products to Kickstart Your New Hobby

12 Litre Hobby Fruit Press: Ideal for beginners, this apple press is the perfect gateway into the world of cider making. Affordable and user-friendly, it gently extracts juice while preserving flavours and nutrients. Start your journey with this entry-level press and enjoy 10% off on a larger press in the future.

Speidel 20 Litre Braumeister Plus: For those intrigued by brewing their own beer, this all-in-one brewing unit is a game-changer. With its advanced features, precise temperature control, and innovative design, it’s an excellent investment for aspiring home brewers seeking quality and efficiency.

Rommelsbacher Dehydrator DA350: Expand your culinary expertise beyond beverages with this versatile dehydrator. Perfect for preserving fruits, vegetables, and herbs, it empowers you to create nutritious snacks and experiment with diverse flavours.

Make 2024 Your Year of Crafting Delicious Beverages 

This New Year, embrace a fulfilling new hobby that combines craftsmanship, creativity, and the joy of sharing delicious homemade beverages. Whether it’s pressing apples for fresh juice or exploring the art of brewing, Vigo Presses offers a range of equipment to kickstart your journey.

Visit Vigo Presses to explore our full range of products, comprehensive guides, and embark on a fulfilling adventure in cider making, juice production, and beyond.

Make your resolution count—make it a year of new tastes, new experiences, and the satisfaction of creating something truly special with Vigo Presses by your side. Cheers to a flavourful and fulfilling New Year!

'Tis the season for the Christmas frenzy! The twinkling lights, the scent of pine, and the joy of giving... but wait! Are you scrambling to find the perfect gift for the man in your life? Fear not, for Vigo Presses is here to sprinkle some holiday magic into your gifting dilemma. Whether he's seeking a new hobby or aiming to level up his homebrewing game, we've hand picked our top 6 Christmas gifts that will light up his holiday season.

1. 12 Litre Hobby Fruit Press - £95.00

Is he dreaming of crafting his own delicious homemade cider or fruit juices? This press is a game-changer, perfect for turning backyard harvests into delicious juices.

2. Beech Grain / Flour Mill 550W - £345.00

Take his culinary skills up a notch with this powerful grain mill. Let him grind his grains and experiment with different flours.

3. £10 Vigo Presses Gift Voucher

Can't decide? Let him choose with this voucher! He'll love exploring our collection and picking out exactly what he desires.

4. Red Ceramic Vinegar Pot - 4.8 Litre - £135.00

Elevate his kitchen décor with this stunning vinegar pot. Our stunning ceramic pots are handmade in France for unparalleled quality and exquisite craftsmanship.

5. Rommelsbacher Dehydrator DA350 - £129.00

Perfect for the snack enthusiast! This dehydrator will let him preserve fruits, make beef jerky, or create homemade other homemade treats.

6. Speidel 20 Litre Braumeister Plus - £1995.00

For the brewing maestro! This Braumeister Plus is a dream come true for crafting batches of beer with precision and style.

The holidays are all about spreading joy, and what better way to do so than with gifts that spark creativity and passion? Make this Christmas one to remember by choosing from our handpicked selection.

For more ideas and to explore our full Christmas gifts collection, head over to Vigo Presses' Christmas Gifts Page. Let's make his holiday season merry and filled with brewing, pressing, and kitchen adventures!

Wishing you a joyous and gift-filled Christmas season,
Team Vigo Presses.

Cider making is a fun and rewarding craft that has been enjoyed for centuries. One of the most crucial steps in the process is fermentation. This is where the natural sugars in apple juice are transformed into alcohol, creating that signature crisp and refreshing flavour. To help you master this essential part of cider making, we've put together this Fermentation 101 guide with tips and tricks for a successful cider fermentation.

Yeast Selection

The choice of yeast can significantly impact the flavour, aroma, and overall quality of your cider. There are various yeast strains available, each with its unique characteristics. Here are a few popular options to consider:

Young's Dried Active Yeast 100g: This yeast strain is a versatile choice, known for its ability to produce clean and crisp ciders. It's a great option for those looking to create a classic, traditional cider.

Mangrove Jack's M02 Cider Yeast: If you're seeking a yeast strain tailored specifically for cider production, Mangrove Jack's M02 is an excellent choice. It can bring out the fruity and estery notes, creating a cider with an enhanced apple aroma and flavour.

Cider Yeast 100g (saccharomyces bayanus strain): For those who prefer a slightly different approach, the saccharomyces bayanus strain is a reliable option. This strain creates a cider with a crisp finish and a well-defined apple character, making it a popular choice among cider enthusiasts.

Temperature Control

Fermentation temperature is important to the cider-making process. It influences the flavour, smell, and the yeast's activity. Here are some temperature control tips:

Steady Temperature: Maintain a consistent fermentation temperature, ideally between 15-24°C (60-70°F) for most yeast strains. Changes in temperature can lead to flavours being off and stressed yeast.

Cool Fermentation: If you want a cleaner, crisper cider, opt for a lower fermentation temperature within the recommended range above.

Warm Fermentation: To promote fruity esters and a more complex flavour profile, ferment at the higher end of the recommended temperature range above.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Cider fermentation can be tricky, and issues may happen. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

Stuck Fermentation: If your fermentation stops before it's complete, try gently stirring the cider to resuspend the yeast. You can also add yeast nutrient, like our Yeast Nutrient 100g, to boost yeast activity.

Off-Flavours: Off-flavours can be caused by a variety of factors. To prevent this, ensure your equipment is properly sanitised, and your cider is well aerated before fermentation. Controlling the fermentation temperature and using the right yeast strain for your desired flavour can also help.

Cloudy Cider: If your cider appears hazy, it could be due to suspended yeast. Give it more time to settle, or consider using fining agents, like the Cider Brite Cider Finings, to clarify the cider.

Unwanted Smells: If your cider has a funky or sulphur-like smell, it might be due to stressed yeast. Proper temperature control and nutrient addition can help mitigate this issue.

Acidity and Sweetness: Balancing acidity and sweetness can be tricky. Taste your cider regularly and adjust with sugar or acid additions as needed to achieve the desired balance.

Successful cider fermentation is an art, and with these tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to crafting amazing ciders. Remember that practice makes perfect, and it's okay to experiment with different yeast strains and fermentation techniques to find the flavour profile that suits your taste. As you continue your cider-making journey, you'll discover that the possibilities are as endless as the apple orchards themselves. Cheers from us at Vigo Presses to your next batch of delicious homemade cider!

The calendar is ticking, and the anticipation is building as we gear up for The Big Pick! Mark your calendars for the 23rd and 24th of September, because this is a two-day event you won't want to miss. As part of the 16-day Taste East Devon Festival, the ancient Whiteways orchard is set to open its gates once again to welcome you into a world of natural beauty, live music, and cider-making magic.

A Taste of Tradition

Nestled in the heart of Southbrook Lane, Whimple, 'Courtney's of Whimple' ancient cider orchard is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This orchard has a rich history, and during these two days, from 11am to 5pm, it will be open to the public. It's a family-friendly event, so bring your loved ones along, and let's make memories together.

What's in Store for You?

Apple Picking - Join in the Courtneys Cider making experience by helping to harvest this year’s apple crop. Explore and relax in our ancient orchards, experiencing nature at its finest.

Apple Pressing - The opportunity to press apples you have brought with you to create your own fresh juice or press the apples you have picked from the orchard (note: charge £2 per kg - bring your own vessels for juice or we will provide free of charge).

Live Music - The live music will be the soundtrack to your day, filling the Orchard with great vibes at various times on both days.

Bar - Experience the Courtney's Drinks range including cocktails, award-winning ciders, and refreshing soft drinks from their cider bar. And for 2023, we have exciting additions: Sparkling Apple Juice and Courtney's Cloudy Cider.

Refreshments - Hot and cold refreshments will be available throughout the day.

Tickets and Other Details

Adult tickets are just £6 per person, Under 16s are only £1, and little ones under 2 years old get in for FREE. But remember, these prices are per day, and tickets are non-refundable. 

Don't wait until the last minute; secure your spot now here!

Feel free to bring your well-behaved dogs along, but please make sure they're on leads, as there are sheep grazing in the orchards. 

Parking is limited, so if you can, consider walking or cycling if you are close by.

Don't forget to register for a ticket  to attend and, if your plans change, please cancel your ticket to give someone else the chance to enjoy the day. 

As you explore the orchard, be mindful of the busy bees who play a crucial role in pollinating our trees!

How to Find Us

Getting to Courtney's Orchards is a breeze. Head to The Old Orchards, Southbrook Lane, Whimple, EX5 2PD. You can also find us on Google Maps here.

Your Sat Nav may take you to a neighbouring farm. Our orchard is on 'Southbrook Lane' just past the railway bridge. 1 mile from the old A30.

what3words: themes.extreme.flattered.

For those who are nearby, it's a short walk or cycle from Cranbrook, Whimple, Broadclyst, and Rockbeare.

Don't Miss Out!

The Big Pick is just around the corner, and we can't wait to welcome you. It's a chance to connect with nature, enjoy live music, and indulge in delicious cider and apple treats. So mark those dates on your calendar, buy your tickets, and prepare for a day of fun and relaxation in the heart of East Devon. See you there!

When it comes to making top-quality juice or cider, harvesting apples at the right time is absolutely crucial. The flavour and overall quality of your final product will depend on it. Harvesting apples too early can result in hard, sour apples that are unsuitable for pressing. So, let's explore some essential tips to ensure you get the best harvest possible and make the most out of your apple trees.

Fruit Thinning for Optimal Growth:

To encourage further growth and prevent damage to your apple trees, consider fruit thinning. If you notice branches heavily laden with fruit, gently remove the smallest apples to allow space for the others to grow. This step also helps sunlight to penetrate clusters, aiding in the ripening process.

Summer Pruning for Healthier Trees:

By engaging in some summer pruning of your apple trees, you can encourage the development of fruit buds for the following year. This practice helps even out a tree's natural tendency to be biennial and sets the stage for healthy apples in the future.

Determining Apple Ripeness for Pressing:

Knowing when your apples are ripe and ready for pressing is crucial. We want to make sure you are harvesting apples the right way, so here are three helpful tips to judge their ripeness:

1. Cut a sample apple in half and check the colour of the pips. Ripe apples should have black and glossy pips, while pale or brown ones need more time on the tree. Only apples with black pips are suitable for juicing and cider making.
2. Hold a large apple in your hand and gently twist it off the stem. A ripe apple will readily fall into your hand, ensuring a bruise-free harvest. For hard-to-reach apples, consider using harvesting tools to help in your apple harvest.
3. Never use rotten apples for pressing or storage, as they can spoil the rest of your apples. Follow the golden rule: don't press what you wouldn't want to eat. Small blemishes, however, are generally fine for cider making.

Apple Varieties & Ripening Times:

Identifying the apple varieties you have and understanding their typical ripening times is incredibly helpful. To keep track of your trees, label them with metal tags. Additionally, you can create a named garden plan to ensure you don't forget essential details when you are harvesting apples.

Crafting Your Perfect Cider:

For cider making, apples with a high sugar content are ideal, as they provide the yeast with the necessary ingredients for fermentation and influence the alcohol content of the finished cider. Different regions have unique cider styles. In the West Country it boasts special varieties of cider apples that are high in tannin which produces a rich, brown juice. On the other hand, the Eastern Counties prefer paler ciders created from blends of dessert and culinary apples.

To achieve a well-balanced cider, try to avoid using solely acidic fruit, as the acidity becomes more pronounced after the sugar converts to alcohol. For culinary apples, consider letting them mature until late in the season before pressing, ideally in December or the New Year. When storing maturing apples, remember to exclude any rotten or bruised fruit, and keep them in a cool, airy place while regularly checking for signs of rot.

By following these friendly tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to perfectly harvesting apples for juicing or cider making. Remember to be patient and let your apples ripen fully to enjoy the best flavours and yields. Harvesting apples the right way for juicing and cider-making is easier, and pressing apples is even easier with Vigo Presses' Complete Starter Kit. Happy harvesting and cheers to fruitful cider-making!