It's apple season – in more ways than one – and as the orchard fruit has its moment, we look at ways to exploit its full potential. Domini Kemp combines apples and figs and in tasty flapjack, while Paul Flynn has a recipe for a Pink Lady tart. John Wilson says Cider Houses rule and tries three great artisan ciders. For a comprehensive update on who's making Ireland's best cider, take a look at a new book, Sláinte: The Complete Guide to Irish Craft Beer and Cider, by Caroline Hennessy and Kristin Jensen. Fionnuala Fallon has advice on what apple trees to plant and Catherine Cleary loves the spelt granola with stewed apple and Highbank Orchard Syrup on the brunch menu at Bear.
If you have access to a supply of apples and want to make your own cider, you can learn from the best: David Llewellyn of Llewellyn Orchards in Lusk, Co Dublin. Llewellyn, who makes excellent juices, cider and vinegars, including balsamic apple cider vinegar, is giving a course in cider making at Sonairte, Laytown, Co Meath on Friday, September 26th (10am-4pm). The €75 fee includes instruction, lunch ‑ and nine pints of cider to take home. Bookings are being taken at Sonairte, tel: 041-9827572.
