About Us
The Story so far
After owning and operating a prawn trawler for 14 years, David and Roslyn Sutton purchased their Granite Belt apple orchard in 1994. Originally focusing on servicing the commercial distribution lines selling to supermarkets, the Suttons began value adding with the development of pure varietal apple juice in 2000 as a response to falling apples prices and changing market conditions.
The juice was soon followed by a range of sparkling and still ciders crafted in accordance with traditional English and French styles, real fruit liqueurs, brandies, grappa, conserves and vinegars. The shed retail outlet was opened in 2002, providing in season produce and the Sutton’s wide range of local fruit products directly to the public.
Today, the family’s business has grown from a traditional apple orchard to a multi – faceted boutique business incorporating a juice factory, cidery, distillery and home style café. The on farm shop is open 7 days a week and offers the ‘pick your own’ apples experience during the produce season between mid January and June.
The Orchard
The Suttons have planted over 30 varieties of apples on the farm including French cider apple varieties as well as more traditional eating apple varieties including Granny Smith, Pink Lady, Jonathon, Mutsu, Gala, Summer Delicious, Early Delicious, Lady Williams, Winesaps and Coxs Orange Pippin.
In addition to apples, the family’s orchard has small quantities of nectarines, apricots and lemons.
Cafe
The Shed Café operates 7 days a week with group bookings welcome. Meals have a focus on fresh local seasonal produce and provide a constantly changing menu full of home style, wholesome cooking. The cafe’s signature dish is home made apple pie served with Sutton’s spiced apple cider ice cream. Yum! Coffee lovers are not forgotten with Merlo Coffee on offer.
Pick Your Own
The Sutton’s welcome you to ‘Pick Your Own’ seasonal, tree ripened apples. The season generally runs between mid January until June. A wide range of varieties including Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Mutsu, Royal Gala, Old Style Delicious and Jonathons are available for ‘Pick Your Own’ adventures.