The inspiration behind the idea
Grandpa Tim and Head Distiller Jordan picking fruit for our liqueur.
Growing tradition: how a grandfather’s passion inspired our Blackcurrant Liqueur
Today we are delighted to be sitting down with Timothy Turner of neighbouring Lower Roselath Farm in Lanlivery, Cornwall.
A lifelong farmer and passionate steward of the land, Tim has been a pivotal figure in a special collaboration with his grandson, our Head Distiller Jordan. Together, they’ve combined their skills, harvesting fruits grown by Tim, to create an exceptional Cornish liqueur.
In this interview we will be delving into Tim’s rich farming history, the bond between grandfather and grandson and the inspiration behind their collaboration on this unique craft product.
Head Distiller Jordan and local Farmer, Grandpa Tim bottling our liqueur.
Tim, where did your passion for growing things begin?
My love for growing started during wartime in Surrey, near the chalk downs where we lived. Back then, farmers used to sow mustard seeds before planting wheat to improve the soil’s fertility. I still vividly remember being about six years old, standing by the garden gate when a man gave me a handful of those mustard seeds. I planted and nurtured them, and that simple moment sparked my lifelong passion for growing things.
Later, around 1946, we moved to Broadstairs and had a large garden. By the age of nine, I was growing vegetables and selling them to the local hotel and greengrocer. Food was still in short supply after the war, so every bit of produce was precious. I remember one particularly sunny Easter day when I was growing lettuces. The local greengrocer called in a panic, saying, “For goodness sake, can you bring more lettuces? Everyone wants salad today!” I told him they were barely a bunch of leaves, but he insisted, "Bring whatever you have!". I found myself cutting the smallest lettuces and rushing them over to help feed everyone. That’s how my passion for growing really took off—it wasn’t just about gardening, it was about feeding people and making a difference.
What changes have you noticed in growing conditions over the years?
One of the biggest changes I’ve seen is how the seasons have shifted. Winters are much milder now, especially here in Cornwall. Last winter was the mildest we've experienced since moving here. When I was younger, we had long stretches of good weather, but now it feels like we only get glimpses of it in between rain. Keeping up with the changing weather patterns is a challenge, especially the rain—it can be relentless!
But there are still magical moments. Late spring in Cornwall is wonderful. Spring arrives earlier here, and everything just bursts into bloom. It’s a beautiful time of year for growing things. You can feel the land waking up. And it’s those perfect moments that make fruits like blackcurrants so full of flavour.
Jordan & his grandpa admiring the Rowan Tree
What’s special about how you grow your produce?
Everything we grow starts from seed, and we stick to natural methods. We use organic liquid feed, our own homemade compost, and absolutely no fertilizers on the fruit.
I’m always on the lookout for interesting plants, like Rowan berries—the fruit of the Mountain Ash. I planted those trees from seedlings 15 years ago, and now look at them!
They’re not just pretty; the birds love them, and they’re perfect for making jams, preserves, and pickles. Though tart and bitter on their own, they blend beautifully with other fruits in a liqueur, much like the way our blackcurrants harmonize with other flavours to create something truly special.
I also enjoy learning the history and folklore behind different fruits. Take elderberries, for example- did you know planting an elder tree near your home was believed to offer protection and bring good fortune? But cutting one down or disrespecting it could supposedly anger the spirits and bring misfortune. That’s why I don’t touch our elder tree!
How do you manage pests and challenges in your garden naturally?
We like to work with nature rather than against it. For example, whiteflies can be a real pest, especially for our prized tomatoes. Instead of using chemicals, we plant French marigolds. They produce a natural insect-repelling chemical called limonene, which helps deter the whiteflies. It's amazing how nature has its own solutions if you take the time to understand it. The same philosophy guides everything we grow, from berries to vegetables. When you treat the land well, it rewards you with produce that’s bursting with flavour -just like the blackcurrants that make our liqueur so exceptional.
Marigolds, a natural insect repellent for tomatoes
What does working on this project with your grandson, creating our blackcurrant liqueur mean to you?
Ever since it’s start up in 2018, I have had nothing but admiration for the Colwith Farm Distillery enterprise. It is a marvellous asset to our community, and indeed Cornwall and beyond having won national and international awards for its gin and vodka.
I was very aware that my grandson Jordan, Head Distiller, wanted to produce something very special to celebrate autumn - the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness!
On the farm here we have hedgerows and trees providing an abundance of wild, edible berries. I grow soft fruit, especially blackcurrants - a top variety which produces a crop of large, juicy berries full of sweetness and of superb flavour. There was nothing I wanted more than to help Jordan achieve his aim.
Here, we have all the ingredients to produce that perfect autumn liqueur. Why not give it a go?
Dear Jordan, it is a joy to work with you and all at Colwith, seeing the fruit I have grown producing a world class product. I very much look forward to next year and growing more fruit to perfection, especially for you at Colwith Farm Distillery.
Grandpa Tim x
Sue, Jordan and Tim
Our Blackcurrant Liqueur is a lovely blend of tradition and innovation, with every bottle infused with the care and dedication of generations of craftsmanship. Discover the taste of Cornwall and purchase your bottle here.