With a history going back over 70 years and in their second year as event sponsors, Johns will be bringing something new and rather special to tempt both local resident and visitors.
‘From Barrel to Bottle’ is a new concept – bringing wines from independent vintners across the world to wine lovers at home. Johns will be stocking barrels of red as well as chilled white and rosé wines that cannot be bought or sampled in supermarkets or other wine stockists in the region.
The idea is simple, customers purchase a refillable 75cl wine bottle and refill it as often as they like for a standard charge. The barrels are changed with new stock every 6 weeks and the wine is ready to drink at its perfect temperature making it ideal for dinner parties.
Gift packages and refill bottles will be available at Foodfest – perfect for Christmas presents, and enjoying at the festival while sampling all the other exciting foods on offer.
Johns is well known for its passion for high quality foods, constantly bringing new and exciting products to customers. Opening their first store in Instow in the 1940s, the family owned business has always been committed to supporting other local businesses across the region.
Anthony Johns owner of Johns of Instow and Appledore said:
“Sponsoring Foodfest is something we are very delighted to do. Johns is proud of its independent producers who always provide us with the best locally sourced high quality produce you can find anywhere. They are an important part of what’s made us so successful for over 70 years. People enjoy great homemade food and local produce in our award winning delis and café. Foodfest gives us all a great opportunity to show what we have to offer and have fun at the same time.“
Launched by North Devon+ in 2008 with European funding via a Leader4 food and drink project, FoodFest has now been self-supporting since 2011.
Kristy Webbe from North Devon+ said:
“Foodfest is a celebration of the best that North Devon’s growers, producers and suppliers have to offer. Growing year on year, the event provides a huge boost both to the local economy and Barnstaple’s retailers. The last event attracted a record-breaking 14,000 visitors and we have every indication that it will be bigger and better this year.”
Run by North Devon+, Foodfest is at the heart of the economic regeneration company’s campaign to support local food and drink producers. The event would not be possible without the support of The North Devon Fisheries Local Action Group, North Devon Council, BID Barnstaple, Johns of Instow and Appledore, Rangemoors and Ashgrove Kitchens.
