The biggest damson harvest yet

The warm embrace of the summer sun has graced our farm this year with a special gift – an abundant harvest of damsons. As I stand beneath the sprawling branches of these bountiful trees, I can't help but be grateful for the perfect conditions that have led to this year's early and copious crop. The damsons have ripened quicker than usual this year, creating an opportunity for us to embark on an extraordinary adventure in pursuit of over a tonne of these delectable fruits. And with more damsons, comes the promise of crafting more of our beloved damson vodka, a true fruit spirit that captures the essence of this splendid season.

Once commonly found in lots of gardens, today damsons have become somewhat of a rarity. A damson is a type of small, dark purple plum. They are typically smaller and more oval in shape compared to other plums and are known for their tart flavour and are often used for making jams, preserves, and vodka! Unfortunately, the decline in the popularity of damsons has led to many of these precious fruits going to waste. Their unique tartness and distinctive flavour have fallen out of favour in modern cuisine, leaving them neglected and often unharvested on trees across the countryside. However, our commitment to crafting damson vodka not only celebrates the rich heritage of these once-beloved fruits but also serves as a vital means of rescue. By turning these under-appreciated gems into a delectable fruit spirit, we are saving countless damsons from a fate of going to waste.

Our mission this week was clear: pick as many damsons as we possibly could. It was a daunting challenge, but one we eagerly embraced. Armed with baskets, ladders, and a whole lot of determination, our small team set out to make this year's harvest the most fruitful one yet.

The orchard was a sight to behold, with branches heavy and bowing under the weight of ripe damsons. The aroma of these plump fruits hung in the air. The very thought of the fruit spirit we would create from this year's harvest filled us with excitement.

As the days passed, we toiled tirelessly, plucking the damsons from their branches, our fingers stained with the juices of these delightful treasures. It was heavy-duty work, but the reward was worth every ounce of effort. 

One might wonder why we were so dedicated to this endeavour. The answer is simple: damson vodka. It's not just a drink; it's a tradition, a labour of love. The deep, rich flavour of our damson vodka is a testament to the fruits of our labour, and we take immense pride in crafting this exquisite fruit spirit.

I am thrilled to report that we not only met but exceeded our target of collecting over a tonne of damsons. It was a moment of triumph, a celebration of hard work, perseverance, and the sweet rewards that nature provides when treated with care and respect.

The fruit spirit of this year's harvest will be unlike any other, a testament to the dedication and passion that went into every damson we collected. It's a reminder that the simple act of picking fruit can be a profound and fulfilling experience, one that connects us to the rhythms of the seasons and the bounty of the earth.