A restaurant with a conscience that has extended the concept of farm-to-plate dining to the drinks menu, Platform Restaurant and Bar has been serving a range of real cider since it opened its doors in London Bridge back in May. However, co-owner of Platform, Barnaby Butterfield, has only recently seen his scrumpy cider crowned the cider champion of the UK at the CAMRA awards.

Sandford Orchards Devon Scrumpy, a full-bodied, cloudy cider with sharp acidity, is only one of the real ciders (made with 100% apple juice – not derived from concentrate) on sale at Platform.

Others from his Devonshire cider farm include Vintage Cider (aged in rum casks from Antigua, which imbue the liquid with a delicate molasses flavour) and Shaky Bridge (a cleaner and crisper easy-drinking cider).

Platform also serve stuff to please the west country cider connoisseurs of yonder years; Old Kirton Straw Pressed Devon Cider has an astringent mouth feel and delivers a vinegar bite that smacks you in the throat… Certainly an acquired taste.

Also on the list are Redvers Buller, a vintage carbonated blend and light drinking cider, and Devon Red Cider, perhaps the closest thing to a ‘session cider’ – appley, clean and refreshing.

News item from Imbibe.com, 06-07-2010