Cornish Tipples…
It’s a real cliché that the Cornish love a drink, but it’s hard not to sample the wares when the county produces such incredible options! From beers and wines to non-alcoholic beverages, these tipples are now known far and wide, even earning awards at international competitions. Why not pull up a chair and grab a glass, you are on holiday after all……..
Tarquin’s Gin, Padstow https://tarquinsgin.com
A real local success story, Tarquin went from a desk job in the city to making gin by the beach, and I’d say that’s a pretty good move! Now stocked in major supermarkets, his best-selling dry gin is described as “Like stumbling across a citrus grove in the middle of a pine forest” and pairs perfectly with a splash of tonic and a wedge of sunshine. With shops, tasting rooms and Gin Schools popping up all over Cornwall, you can’t stumble too far without bumping into a Tarquin’s, and we don’t mind that at all.
Sharps Brewery, Rock https://www.sharpsbrewery.co.uk
Based in Rock, Sharps have been big on the beer scene since setting up in the ‘90’s. Well known for their collabs with Rick Stein, and more recently for their fundraising projects with the Cornwall Air Ambulance and Cornish Surf Life Saving clubs, this brewery has gone from micro to macro over the last few years. Creators of the famous Doom Bar Amber Ale, named after the perilous sand bar at the mouth of the Camel Estuary, you will spot many a Sharps ale in a Cornish pub.
Skinners Brewery, Truro https://skinnersbrewery.com
If you recognise the names Betty Stogs, Cornish Knocker or Figgy’s Brew, chances are you have been in a pub that sells Skinners. Founded in 1997, these guys have been brewing up Cornish Classics ever since. After coming a cropper during Covid, the brewery was bought by the Goodh Brewing Co, and they are now back to full strength, supplying pubs and stores up and down the county.
Verdant Brewing, Penryn https://verdantbrewing.co
If you like a more American flavour to your beer, Verdant are your people. Specialising in New England craft style beers with a more hoppy taste, these guys have been getting creative. Founded in 2014, the last ten years have seen huge growth, and judging by the giant following they have amassed along the way, that won’t be slowing down anytime soon.
Trevibban Mill Vineyard https://trevibbanmill.com
Down the atmospherically named “Dark Lane” just outside Padstow is Trevibban Mill Vineyard where beautiful rolling hillsides are lined with vines, sheep grazing at their feet. Producing a range of delicious wines, including a very gorgeous sparking Pinot Noir, this lovely venue offers tour and tastings, often carried out by the family owners. You can get married here too, so be careful how much wine you sample or big decisions could be made!
Camel Valley Vineyard https://www.camelvalley.com
A big name in bubbles, Camel Valley has been leading the charge in the Cornish wine scene since the first vines went into the ground in 1989. Now stocked in Waitrose, Fortnum’s and all Rick Steins establishments, this family-run enterprise has beaten some of the world’s best champagne brands in taste tests and at international competitions, and it all starts in Bodmin.
Pentire Drinks https://pentiredrinks.com
Inspired by plants that grow on the North Cornish headlands, this non-alcoholic range has been designed as a delicious alternative to a cocktail or mixer drink. With flavour profiles reminiscent of Aperol Spritz or a good old G & T, this booze-free beauty is great for keeping the head clear, but the taste buds satisfied.
📸 Photo credits: Tarquins Gin, Verdant Brewing, Pentire Drinks, Trevibban Mill Vineyard, Sharps Brewing.