Tastings in Guernsey

If you’re the sort of traveller who likes to eat and sip like a local, Guernsey’s tastings have a lot to offer beyond the usual. The island’s cider is a revelation, with places like The Guernsey Cider and Perry Company crafting drinks using apples from local orchards. Popping into their cellar door feels like visiting a mate’s backyard rather than some tourist trap.

Then there’s the cheese. La Mare Wine Estate does really interesting tastings pairing local cheeses with wines – it’s where you can taste that famously crumbly Guernsey cheddar alongside a bold red. If you visit in late summer, the cheese is at its creamiest. And while you’re there, don’t skip their vineyards; the microclimate really helps the grapes.

If whiskey is more your thing, the Guernsey Distillery down in Forest has open days with tastings that shine a light on their well-crafted expressions. Tell them you’re coming from the mainland, and they’ll likely share a bit more history of their small-batch process. Trust me, there’s something special about sipping their amber liquid accompanied by tales that only locals would know.

My top tip? Book a tasting during the quieter weekdays if you can. It's way more relaxed, and you get to chat without feeling rushed. And at some spots, it’s perfectly fine to just turn up and see if there’s space. Guernsey’s fantastic that way, mixing a low-key vibe with genuinely great local produce.