If you haven't seen our previous blog then where have you been? Harvest season is fast approaching and we want to make sure you are fully prepared! 

As the summer days are starting to shorten, and your crop is looking bountiful, it is time to plan ahead and prepare for the harvest season. Whether you are a newcomer eager to explore the world of fruit pressing, or a seasoned expert looking to upgrade your equipment, we have everything you need to make this harvest season your most fruitful one yet.

Start a New Hobby with Your Harvest

Picture yourself enjoying a crisp glass of homemade apple juice, or sharing a bottle of your very own cider with friends. This year it is easier than ever to transform your harvest into delicious drinks. Now is the perfect opportunity to put your apples to good use instead of letting them go to waste. At Vigo Presses, we offer fantastic starter kits that will make it easy to begin your juice and cider making journey.

Plus, we provide FREE advice through our ‘How To Guides’ right here on our website. Not only that, we are always just a phone call away. We love speaking to our customers and are here to offer all the support you need to stay on track and make the most out of your harvest.

Essential Equipment for your Harvest

Crushers & Mills

Before you can press your fruit, you’ll need to crush it to extract the maximum juice. Our crushers and mills are built to handle a variety of fruits, ensuring that you get the most out of your harvest. Our equipment is crafted for efficiency and ease of use.

Apple Press

A reliable apple press is essential for making juice or cider. At Vigo Presses, we offer a range of high-quality presses to suit everyone, whether you're making a small batch at home or running a larger operation. From traditional hand-operated presses to powerful hydraulic models, we have something to fit every need or budget.

Upgrade Options for Seasoned Makers

Are you looking to upgrade your production and take your juice and cider making to the next level? This year, consider upgrading to our advanced options. Our Stainless Steel and Speidel Electric Mills are engineered to handle whole apples effortlessly, producing the perfect pulp for pressing. You can maximise your efficiency without compromising on quality!

Have you Thought About Storage?

Once your juice is pressed, you need to ensure that you have adequate storage options in place. We offer a wide variety of fermenters, barrels, demijohns and glass bottles to accommodate your needs. Don’t risk running out of storage space, make sure you plan ahead and enjoy your homemade creations all year round!

Get Started Today

With harvest season just around the corner there is no better time to start preparing. Explore our range of starter kits, upgrade options and other essential equipment to get you ready. Whether you are starting a new hobby or upgrading your current setup, we’re here to make sure your fruit pressing journey is smooth and satisfying.

With Vigo Presses by your side, this season promises to be as rewarding as it is exciting. Start today and discover why enthusiasts trust us for all their fruit pressing needs!

T-MINUS 7 WEEKS UNTIL HARVEST SEASON. 

Are you ready?

It’s a glorious summer morning and you are looking out of your window at the start of an abundant fruit yield. But wait! What are you going to do with all those apples, pears, and other fruits when it's time to harvest? Now is the perfect time to start thinking about what to do. Instead of letting them go to waste, why not turn them into delicious fruit juices and ciders? With the right tools and our expert guidance, you can easily make the most of your fruit harvest. 

Start a New Hobby with your Fruit this Year 

Imagine sipping a glass of fresh, homemade apple juice, or sharing a bottle of your own cider with friends. This year you can turn that dream into a reality. With the right equipment from Vigo Presses, you will be able to start a new hobby that is both enjoyable and delicious. 

Here’s what you’ll need to get started: 

• Crushers & Mills 

Before pressing, you’ll need to crush your fruit to a pulp. Crushers and mills will break down the fruit so that you are able to extract the juice. Check out our crushers and mills that are designed to handle a variety of fruits to ensure you get the most juice possible. 

• Apple Press 

Apple presses are essential for making juice or cider. They allow you to easily squeeze the juice from your fruit. Vigo Presses offers a wide range of high-quality, market-leading apple presses to suit different needs. Whether you are looking to make small or larger batches, we’ve got you covered.

• Combos & Kits 

If you are thinking of starting a new hobby, our starter kits are a fantastic option. These kits have everything you could need to start making juice or cider at home. Explore our combos and kits which have perfect options for beginners plus larger setups for those considering upgrading their equipment. 

Trusted Support and Guidance from Vigo Presses 

Vigo Presses is a trusted name for hobbyist juice and cider makers, known for our top-quality products and excellent customer support. We are always here to offer advice and support to guide you on your juice and cider-making journey. 
We hear you: “Ok, so that’s the equipment I need, but how on earth do I actually make apple juice?”. Well fear not, we have made a helpful video guide that explains the process step-by-step. Watch our video to give you the confidence to make your own delicious fruit juices at home. 

Additionally, you can check out our how-to guides on our website. Our guides cover everything from how to harvest your fruit, to storing your juice or cider. Everything you possibly need to succeed! If you still have any questions then simply call us and we'll give you all the assistance you need. 

Don’t let your Fruit go to Waste 

Do you often find that your fruit trees can produce more fruit than you can eat fresh? Instead of letting it spoil, why not turn it into something tasty to enjoy all year long? Making your own juice or cider is a fun and rewarding way to preserve your harvest. 

You can even make jams and preserves for your morning toast, cake baking, or start your own side hustle. Why not have a look at our recipes page for more inspiration? Over the years we've come across some seriously scrumptious recipes.

Get Started Today 

There is no better time to start making the most of your fruit. With plenty of starter kits and resources available here at Vigo Presses, you can begin your fruit juicing journey with ease. Whether you are making juice, cider, or other fruit-based products, we are here to guide you every step of the way. 

Start a fantastically tasty hobby today and enjoy the fruits of your labour all year round!

As the harvest season approaches, many of us find ourselves with an abundance of fruit and wondering: “What do I do with all of it?”. You find that your freezer is full, and there is only so much apple crumble you can make. But, did you know that there’s an exciting alternative to preserving your harvest? Dried fruit snacks, a very delicious and practical solution if we do say so ourselves!

Why Dry your Fruit?

Drying fruit is a fantastic way to extend its shelf life, reduce waste, and create tasty, healthy snacks. Here are some more benefits of drying fruit:

• Versatility: Dried fruit can be used in a variety of ways such as in granolas, for baking, salads, or just as a snack on its own.
• Space: Dried fruit takes up much less space than fresh or frozen fruits.
• Reduced Waste: Instead of letting surplus fruit go to waste, drying them allows you to preserve it for months.
• Healthy Snacking: Dried fruit retains most of its nutrients and is a fantastic energy-boosting snack.

How to Dry Fruit

Drying fruit can be done in several ways, however, for the best results, we highly recommend using a dehydrator. It provides a controlled environment that speeds up the process of drying fruits while preserving their nutritional value and flavour.

At Vigo Presses, we offer a range of food dryers and dehydrators that makes drying fruit easiest and more efficient.

Pasteurising and Preservation

As well as drying, pasteurising is another excellent way to preserve your fruit. Pasteurisation involves heating fruit to kill bacteria, yeast, and mould, which will extend its shelf life. This is useful for making juices, ciders, and preserves.

Our pasteurisers are designed to make this process simple and effective, ensuring your fruit juices stay fresher for longer.

Get Creative with your Surplus Fruit

Are you looking for more inspiration? Visit our How To section and Recipes page for a variety of ideas on how to preserve your abundance of fruit. From dried apple ring snacks to cherry plum jelly, there are plenty of delicious and creative ways to enjoy your harvest all year round.

So, as the harvest season approaches, be prepared and not let your surplus fruit go to waste. With Vigo Presses’ dehydrators and pasteurisers, you can easily create a cupboard full of nutritious snacks and preserves, making sure nothing goes to waste.

Happy Harvesting!

Spring is in full bloom, and there's a sense of magic in the air as apple trees burst into blossom. With the sun shining and the weather turning lovely, it's the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of nature and make apple juice from your very own garden.

Enjoying Apple Blossoms in Your Garden

Springtime in your garden is a real treat with apple blossoms in full bloom. The pink and white flowers add a splash of colour, and their sweet scent fills the air. Watching each blossom open is both relaxing and exciting, making your garden a tranquil place to be. But did you know that you can make your very own apple juice from the apples that grow on your tree? 

Why Make Your Own Apple Juice?

Use Your Surplus Apples: When you have apples coming out of your ears, turning to apple juice is a fantastic way to use up your harvest. 

Health Benefits: Fresh apple juice is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. It’s a nutritious addition to your diet, helping to protect against illnesses and boost overall health.

Explore Flavours: Different types of apple offer a range of flavours. Blending a variety of apples like sweet Cox with tangy Bramley can create unique flavours.

Simple Process: Making apple juice is really straightforward. First wash your apples, then crush them using an apple mill or manually with a bucket and clean timber, and press them with an apple press. You can drink the juice fresh, store it in the fridge, or preserve it for later.

Check out our Apple Juice Making video as we guide you through each step of the juicing process.

Cost-Effective: Making your own juice can save money. With the right equipment, you can produce high-quality juice at a fraction of the store-bought price.

Read our guide on ‘10 Good Reasons to Make Apple Juice’ to learn more.

Getting Started

If you’re new to apple juicing, starting small is perfectly fine. Invest in a good press, like our 6 Litre Hobby Fruit Press, and press apples manually until you're ready to upgrade. Alternatively, our Standard Apple Juice Kit includes everything you need to get started. 

A Fun Activity for Everyone

Juicing apples isn’t just productive, it’s a fun activity for everyone. Gather your family, friends, or neighbours and make a day of it. From picking apples to pressing juice, there’s something for everyone, even children, with supervision, can join in the fun too. Many communities have created events like Apple Days, like our annual ‘The Big Pick’ open orchard event, to bring people together and celebrate. 

Nothing Goes to Waste

Even the leftovers from juicing, called pomace, are useful. Add it to your compost heap to enrich your soil or scatter it in your garden to attract birds. If you’re feeling adventurous, use your freshly pressed juice to make cider. With our cider-making kit, you can turn your apple juice into your very own cider.

Join Our Cider Making Courses

Are the apple blossoms inspiring you to finally use the potential of your fruit tree? Perhaps you want to take your juicing skills to the next level? Join us for our upcoming apple pressing and cider making courses. Learn the art of pressing and fermenting apples into cider with our hands-on workshops on our ancient Devon cider farm on August 31st and September 6th. We can’t wait to see you there!

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!