Sandford Orchards have announced that Rull Orchard have won their 2025 Breakthrough Cider Maker Awards with Autumn Unwrapped Perry (5.5% ABV).
Barny Butterfield (right), managing director of Sandford Orchards, with Claire Daniels and Mike Shorland of Rull Orchard
These unique awards, which offer aspiring cider makers the chance to win an invaluable package of vouchers, guidance, and guaranteed listings in the on- and off-trade, are designed to support the future of cider in the UK.
“We’re over the moon to receive this award!” said Claire Daniels, from Rull Orchard. “It’s wonderful to have our natural, full-juice perry recognised by a panel of such acclaimed judges, and very exciting to be part of a growing appreciation for sustainably produced drinks that reflect our passion for nature and biodiversity.
“We’re very much looking forward to collaborating with Barny, and our future journey in creating and promoting cider and perry.”
Barny Butterfield is managing director of Sandford Orchards and founder of the awards. He said: ”Rull Orchard is a worthy winner of these awards. Their Autumn Unwrapped Perry is technically sensational.
“Every judge on the day wished they could make a perry of this quality. If you are looking for flavour, character, and style, you simply will not believe what Rull has landed here.”
Silvers were awarded to Canterbury Cider for their Celebration Cider (6% ABV) and to Tippetts Cider for Crow Cider (4.8% ABV). The judges described Celebration Cider as a wonderful introduction to cider for the curious; brilliantly approachable, very smooth, and well made. They felt that Crow Cider was a rich, easy drinking, balanced cider with delightful tannins and baked apple flavours.
The awards were judged by industry experts including Gabe Cook, AKA The Ciderologist, Tom Oliver, from Oliver’s Cider and Perry, and Mary Topp from New Forest Cider and The London Cider House.
Gabe said: “I was particularly delighted that it was a perry that sealed the win for Rull. Clearly they are relishing blending their drinks and are determined to share the joy of cider and perry far and wide. What an honour it was to taste through a wonderful selection of ciders and perries.”
Mary added: “The distinct regional flavours showcased by Tippetts and Canterbury’s silver awards were excellent examples of how English cider has evolved, proving there’s truly a cider out there for every palate.”
Rull Orchard will receive a prize package that includes a £500 Vigo voucher, a £250 Murphy & Son voucher, a listing at their local Stable Pizza, a listing at The London Cider House, a Sandford Orchards collaboration limited edition cider, and a visit by Sandford Orchards’ cider makers to offer practical help and advice about set-up.
The two runners-up will both receive a £200 voucher from Bag In Box Shop UK, plus a £100 voucher from Murphy & Son. All three winners will receive a 12-month listing at Darts Farm, Devon, and a 12-month listing on Sandford Orchards’ website.
