Just The Juice Spring 2009

By The Isle of Wight, being part of the Wessex Region of CAMRA, is close to the National Champion Cider and Perry Pub – The Square and Compass at Worth Matravers in Dorset. This prestigious accolade was announced in October 2008 and now that spring is in air a trips could be in order.

The Owner and Landlord Mr Newman’s unwavering commitment to real cider and perry is self evident with their National Award, beer is served directly from the barrel, and they host community events as diverse as a stone carving festival in August. Additionally this pub is part of CAMRA’s National Inventory and is one of a handful of pubs which has been in every edition of the CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide.

It is understandable that The Square and Compass holds a special place in the hearts of those who visit it. So next time a trip is mentioned suggest Dorset – there is even a beautifully small fossil museum on site with camping close by for an overnight option!

On the Island I snapped two cider makers at The Arreton Barns Autumn festival last year who were Andrew Gibbs and Phil Barns. They told me they used cider apples only and pressed for personal not commercial use – so I didn’t get a tipple. A bit of a shame as there is space for some fresh new real producers on the Island.

Wassail
Gillian Williams