The island Lilleø

In 2003 Claus Meyer purchased the farm Vigmosegaard and orchard on the island Lilleø, approx. 120 km south of Copenhagen, in anticipation of his own production of fruit vinegars. He began the commercial breeding of Danish apples and pears and the production of cold-pressed apple juice and he established a coopration with the other two farms on the island.

The island Lilleø has a unique micro climate and is one the smallest islands in Denmark. It is situated in the sea surrounded by the islands of Zealand, Møn, Falster and Lolland. Since the 1930ties fruit farming has been the main activity of the island which today has more than 25 apple cultivars. There is no irrigation on the island which leads to a smaller yield compared to the traditional orchards. Plenty of night dew, the salty sea air and the smaller yield contribute to giving the fruits a great intense taste. The fruit trees are normally cut down when they are 15 years old, but on this island many of the trees are both 20 and 60 years old which gives them a first class quality of taste.

Unique for Lilleø is also its vineyard. Hansen's vineyard produces top quality wines for Noma.

It is absolutely worth a visit to see the old orchards in the beautiful blooming period which is form the last week of May to the first week in June. A visit could be combined with a gastronomic experience based on the local fresh produce and a stay at the charming Hotel Saxkjøbing, situated on the nice town square in the middle of Saxkjøbing.

For more information please contact:

Pernille Marie Martinussen

phone +45 35 30 15 12

pmm@meyerfood.dk