192: Oak Barrel Smoker, Cheese & Cider | UK

Kate and Toby Lovell are raising Shropshire Sheep and Friesian Sheep at Handcocks Meadow Farm The Shropshire Sheep don’t debark trees which make them excellent for use in orchards. They also have a flock of Friesian Sheep for cheese making.

This chat was recorded at the Ross Cider Fest, based in Ross on Wye, in Herefordshire in the United Kingdom. The fest took place August 30- September 1, 2019 and has been an annual fest for the past 20 years.

I was quite taken by all the volunteers who helped set up the festival and the vendors such as Handcocks Meadow Farms.

The first conversation in this episode was at the covered sheep trailer that was set up for serving Hancocks Meadow Farm smoked lamb. Meet Harriet, David, and Sullivan who were serving up smoked lamb.

Then we talk with Toby Lovell, who was manning the oak barrel smoker.

Toby Lovell with barrel

While the barrel is closed, it is perfect for holding glasses and bottles of cider...of course Ross Cider ;)

The set up is basic and yet the outcome is exotic - leaving me hungry for the next time I come across the Lovell’s and their perfectly smoked lamb.

Pauline, Kate’s mum, makes cheese from the milk of the herd of Friesains on the farm.

Pauline and Kate using a Dutch cheese knife

Cheese scale

The final mini chat is with Albert Johnson of Ross Cider with a little help from his border collie, Norman.

And, I read a mini letter from John the cider maker at Ross Cider, who also happens to have a very long name, but for now we will call him John Edwards.

Mentions in this Chat

2nd Annual New England Cider Tour Oct 31, 2019