Celebrating Perry’s Past, Present, and Future
Tom Oliver began his keynote by saying, “At this year’s Applefest Banquet, I had the honor of lifting a glass to the people behind the pear—specifically Perry. It wasn’t just a toast to the drink itself, but to the incredible commitment behind its preservation and craft.”
The Herefordshire AppleFest took place over the course of two weeks in the Fall of 2024. The festival appears is being retired (at least not taking place in 2025), which feels like a loss, but time will tell. Stay tuned!
Three Perry Legends
Charles Martel
- Known for his Stinking Bishop cheese and peri-based products.
- Catalogued disappearing peri pear varieties, creating the first national collection at the Three Counties Showground.
- His book on Gloucestershire pears remains a landmark work.
Jim Chapman
- Solicitor turned perry champion.
- Discovered the Hartbury Green pear and launched the Hartbury Orchard Centre.
- Now curates over 100 varietals displayed annually at the Malvern Autumn Show.
- Prefers dry, still perry—no bubbles, no fuss.
Kevin Minchew
- Perry pioneer bottling single varietals long before it was fashionable.
- Crafted standout perries like Gin and Huffcap in whiskey barrels.
- His final release, Last Hurrah, is a 23-year-aged marvel at 11% ABV.
Why Perry Matters
“Each of these individuals helped elevate Perry to something worth saving, savoring, and sharing. Their legacies shape not just what’s in our glass—but how we think about heritage, land, and tradition.
Let’s keep their torch lit. Raise your glass—Perry!” quote from Tom Oliver
Contact info for Oliver’s Cider and Perry
Contact info for Hereford AppleFest
- Website: https://herefordcitycouncil.gov.uk/hereford-applefest-2025/
- The AppleFest will be taking a pause for 2025 – stay tuned for 2026
Mentions in this Cider Chat
- Totally Cider Tours – UK Cider Tour 2025
- Jane Peyton Keynote Episode 440: Jane Peyton Keynote |Hereford AppleFest Banquet
- Hereford Beer House – United Kingdom
- Gabe Cook – Ciderologist
