Regardless of which coastline you find yourself along, there are worthy ciders to be sipped on either side of the country. From east to west, we’ve compiled a list of four coastal cider destinations worth visiting.
Far West Cider | Richmond, California
Far West Cider has been operating from and overlooking San Francisco’s East Bay since 2016. Head cider-maker Adam Chinchiolo hails from the the fourth generation Chinchiolo Family Farms, where apples are harvested and pressed for the cidery. Far West is actually part of a collective community space of wineries and tasting rooms known as Rigger’s Loft. Since all of these producers are planted within this fresh, industrial warehouse, it’s surely worth the trip. Sip from authentic, orchard blends with stunning city and ocean views.
The Wölffer Estate | Sagaponack, New York
This idyllic Hamptons destination makes for a fitting addition to this list. Visitors can select from an approachable lineup of ciders and wine among the rolling hills and vast vineyards in the Wölffer Estate. The winery has a real eye for modern design — evident in its tasting room, restaurants and elegant packaging. But if spending time outside is up your alley, bring a lawn blanket and meet friends at The Winestand to watch the sun set all summer long. Either way, get ready for some real Instagram-worthy views paired with one of their signature ciders.
Dragon’s Head Cider | Vashon Island, Washington
Nestled among the sleepy and peaceful surroundings of the Pacific Northwest’s scenic Vashon Island is Dragon’s Head Cider. And lucky for everyone, it’s just a quick ferry ride away from Seattle. The cidery echoes true farm-to-glass values, sourcing most fruit from the farm and surrounding island itself. Sip from traditionally made heritage ciders, including English and French varietals, while you enjoy wandering and tasting among the orchard grounds, which resemble a dreamy forest more than a cidery.
Downeast Cider | East Boston, Massachusetts
Off the beaten path is Downeast Cider, located in a shipyard overlooking Boston Harbor with the city skyline in the distance. Unfiltered ciders echo the vision of authenticity that the cidery lives by. A tour from the welcoming, informative staff is a must on your visit. Sample from all of their current draft ciders, and enjoy a peek into what the research and development team is working on. Be sure to book a tour ahead of time; these tours are limited and quite popular. The open, industrial-style cider house currently doesn’t offer full pours on site — at least for the time being. However, the experience alone is reason enough to make the trip. Stay awhile and snag a few six packs to go.
