The sourdough bread baking workshop is absolutely brilliant. Have to say that one of the highlights was when John ran outside because it was snowing. Haha. Wow, that oven is something else! I felt really privileged when we all got turns at loading our loaves into it and then there was the extra pressure of getting 3 loaves on the paddle when we had a go at getting them out. The loaves I gave away from the workshop, received rave reviews. I feel like my sister and I hit the jackpot with the group we were a part of. Each of the other participants added a really nice contribution to the day. My own sourdough starter that I received on the day is living in my pantry. I feed it every day without fail. It's easy to remember. I feed the dogs and then feed the starter. I split it into 2, in case something unexpected happens, so I have a backup. I named them after my grandmothers; Rose & Irene. It will be funny when I take them away with us on holidays. I made my first loaves with Rose on the weekend. I saved giving my review until I had made an attempt at home with my own facilities. I'm pretty impressed with myself for the first effort and I am looking forward to improving my technique and trying variations as I become more confident. Thank-you John for your sage advice, your pragmatic opinions and your infectious enthusiasm.
I have wanted to do this course for 3 years and it didn’t disappoint, learning about bread making in this old bakery and using the oven is amazing. John is an excellent teacher with such a wealth of knowledge that he was happy to share with us. Well presented, great lunch, good coffees and we got to take quite a few loaves of sourdough home! Highly recommended.