Summer Shenanigans: 10 ciders to pair with your favorite summer adventures

by | Jul 20, 2023

Picture this: The sun is shining bright, the air is warm and you are ready to embark on some epic summer shenanigans. But wait, what’s missing? The perfect drink to accompany your adventures. Look no further, because we’ve rounded up a fantastic selection of ciders that’ll be the perfect sidekicks for summertime chillin’.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering with friends, seeking a tranquil lakeside escape, or simply lounging at the beach, these handcrafted ciders have you covered. Cheers to a summer filled with refreshing sips, unforgettable adventures, and a whole lot of fun!

Elevated brunch with ANXO Pennsylvania Dry

ANXO Cider, based in Washington, D.C., started as a Basque-inspired restaurant and cider bar. Their initial fermentations were so successful that they transformed into a full-fledged cidery. Now, ANXO produces nearly 100,000 gallons of cider each year, distributing their delightful creations across more than 20 states. Their Pennsylvania Dry cider, made from mid-Atlantic cider apples, is one of the finest of their offerings. Pure cider goodness, no funky additives! Gather your crew for a fabulous brunch with ANXO Cider Pennsylvania Dry. It’s the perfect companion for leisurely mornings filled with good food and laughter.

Unwind by the lake with Rootwood Cider Company Lake Effect

Like the name suggests, Rootwood Lake Effect is the drink you want to be sipping by the lakeside on a scorching summer day. The Koenig family, who has been growing apples in Washington’s Lake Chelan Valley for over a century, created Rootwood Cidery in 2015 with the goal of showcasing the unique flavors of the region. One of their most beloved ciders is Lake Effect, a bright and balanced creation that pays homage to the region’s weather and geography.  Crafted with Golden Delicious, Winesap and Manchurian Crab apples from the Koenig family’s orchard, Lake Effect captures the essence of deep crabapple flavor. 

Forest camping with Vander Mill Totally Roasted

In the heart of Michigan, Vander Mill Cidery, a family-owned business, uses 100% locally grown apples to produce artisanal cider. Their Totally Roasted cider is a marvelous blend of tradition and modernity. By steeping candied pecans, they infuse the cider with a savory nuttiness, making it an ideal beverage to sip by the campfire. The unique cider pairs perfectly with roasted marshmallows and fun camping trips that turn into lifelong memories.

Outdoor picnics with Milk and Honey’s Alchemy Ice Cider

In Saint Joseph, Minnesota, Milk and Honey Ciders crafts aromatic and intriguing ciders from heirloom and heritage apple varieties. Their Alchemy Ice Cider sings of summer and is perfect for laidback picnics in the park. Made with Winesap and Northern Spy apples and aged in bourbon-barrels, this cider has a warm honey character. With its balanced sweetness and rich nutty flavor, it is very food-friendly and pairs well with tea sandwiches, hearty pasta salads and even fried chicken. Delish!

Blissful beach days with Eden Ciders Troc Star

Eden Ciders takes a winemaking approach to cidermaking, resulting in ciders that reflect the terroir of Vermont. One of their stellar creations is Troc Star, aged for several months to develop complex flavors of white grapes, fragrant botanicals and ripe peaches. This dry, balanced cider is light, crisp and endlessly refreshing, making it the perfect companion for a lazy beach day. Pair it with some delicious cheese and charcuterie, and you’ll experience a match made in cider heaven.

Poolside lounging with Noble Cider Strawberry Mimosa

Noble Cider, nestled in the vibrant city of Asheville, North Carolina, has been producing high-quality, dry ciders since 2012. Their mission has always been to create ciders that rival the taste of sparkling white wine using local apples. One standout offering from Noble Cider is their refreshing Strawberry Mimosa, made with fresh-pressed apple juice, an abundance of juicy strawberries and a tangy hint of clementine juice — the epitome of summer in a can. Sip away while lounging by the water’s edge or splashing about in the pool with friends.

Impromptu patio parties with Benny Boy Brewing Harvest Handshake

Los Angeles proudly boasts Benny Boy Brewing, the city’s first combined brewery and cidery. With a focus on classic European-inspired beers and clean, dry ciders, Benny Boy Brewing has captured the hearts of cider enthusiasts. One of their most popular ciders is Harvest Handshake, a dry and subtly fruity rosé cider crafted with apples, grapes and … time. The wild fermentation of Newtown Pippin apple juice on Pinot Noir grape skins from Pali Wine Co. creates a truly unique flavor profile. Unfiltered and naturally carbonated, this fizzy explosion of flavor is the perfect accompaniment to a patio party that’s anything but ordinary.

Riverside chillin’ with Bauman’s Cider Peach Bellini

Since 2016, Bauman’s Cider has been crafting exceptional ciders in Oregon’s picturesque orchards. Their Peach Bellini cider is a modern twist on a classic flavor. Infused with farm-fresh peaches, this light and refreshing hard cider offers delicate nuances of flavor that transport you to an orchard in full bloom. This easy-drinking cider packs in the perfect balance of sweetness, acidity and natural carbonation, leaving you craving more. Grab a bottle and spend a glorious day at the riverside, rafting and indulging in the flavors of summer.

Rewarding hikes with Incline Cider Beare’s Original Haze

Hailing from Yakima, Washington, Incline Cider crafts unique and approachable ciders. Beare’s Original Haze is the quintessential summer sipper. Made with unfiltered Honeycrisp apples, this cloudy cider offers a depth of wholesome apple and jammy citrus flavors at a refreshing 5% ABV. Reward yourself after a long walk on the beach or a scenic hike in the mountains. Refreshing and crisp, it embodies the essence of summer.

Summer BBQs with Swilled Dog Mango Ginger

In the beautiful landscapes of West Virginia, Swilled Dog, a female-owned cidery, crafts award-winning hard ciders alongside small-batch whiskeys and bourbons. Their Mango Ginger cider is a semi-sweet delight, with bold, juicy mango flavor creating a brilliant contrast with a hint of warming ginger spice. This complex, fruit-forward cider is great for BBQ parties. 

what’s new

Week of Events

Follow US

get the latest

SIGN UP FOR THE CIDERCRAFT NEWSLETTER.

By subscribing online, you are opting in to receive our CIDERCRAFT Insider e-newsletter— with the latest coverage in the cider beverage scene, product reviews, libation destinations, events + more.

Pin It on Pinterest

CIDERCRAFT
Introducing the most otterly amazing collab yet!

@drinkgoldenstate is partnering with @seaottersavvy, a non-profit dedicated to protecting sea otters and promoting responsible wildlife viewing. To celebrate, they've launched exclusive co-branded cans featuring sea otter artwork, plus fun merch to match!

Here’s the best part: A portion of the proceeds directly supports Sea Otter Savvy’s mission.

Here’s what’s in your can: 
🍎 100% fresh, cold-pressed West Coast apples 
🥂 Perfectly balanced with no added sugar for a crisp, refreshing taste 
🌱 Gluten-free & vegan-friendly 
🍏 6.1% ABV 
💥 Grab a 16oz 4-pack (webstore + taproom exclusive!) and join them at the taproom, where Sea Otter Savvy will be sharing their incredible work on sea otter protection.

Head to our link in bio to learn more about this collaboration and grab a pint for a great cause.

#GoldenStateCider #SeaOtterSavvy #CiderForACause #WildlifeConservation #DrinkCiderDoGood
🥾
Hike, sip, repeat! 🥾

Looking for the perfect way to pair outdoor adventures with refreshing cider? We've rounded up the ultimate hiking trails near local cideries spanning New York, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and Washington. 

Highlights include:
Teatown Lake trails paired with award-winning ciders from @thompsonscidermill
A bike ride along the East Bay Path with a stop for handcrafted blends at @sowamsciderworks 
Scenic views from the Coal & Coke Trail followed by a Blueberry Lemon sip from @yinzervalleyfarms 
Island Center Forest’s peaceful paths matched with @dragonsheadcider and @nashi_orchards on Vashon Island 

Discover all the trails and ciders in our full article on cidercraftmag.com.

Story by Stasia Brewczynski

#SupportLocalCideries #ThompsonsCiderMill #SowamsCiderWorks #YinzerValleyFarms #DragonsHeadCider #NashiOrchards
🚨
🚨
🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨

After years of basic apple ciders stealing the spotlight, we’re officially saying BYE FELICIA 🍎 and hello to the new IT fruit. That’s right, Cidercraft Magazine is rebranding as PINEAPPLE MAGAZINE!

Apples? Cute, but predictable. Pineapples? They’re funky, spiky, and basically scream vacation vibes. Plus, have you SEEN how chic they look on everything from print patterns to cocktail garnishes? Sorry apples, you’re just... last season. We’re all about keeping it tropical from now on. 🌴

Get ready for juicy pineapple recipes, refreshing pineapple cider cocktails, and the exclusive on pineapple-based trends (piña coladas, anyone?).

Tag your pineapple-obsessed bestie and help us spread the news! 🍍

#PineappleMagazine #cider #pickcider #apples #pineapples
@ciderfeasthq Portland is kicking off the 2025 East Coast Tour this Mother’s Day, May 11th, at Oxbow Blending & Bottling in Portland, ME. With over 15 hand-picked cideries showcasing their finest pours, plus incredible food pairings from local food trucks, this festival is the ultimate treat for cider enthusiasts! 

Discover unique ciders, connect with passionate producers, and indulge in flavors from Maine and beyond. Tickets include cider tastings, a souvenir glass, and the perfect excuse to spoil mom this Mother’s Day. 
 
Want to learn more about this one-of-a-kind event? Read more at cidercraftmag.com!

#CiderFeastPortland #DrinkCider #MothersDay #PortlandME
Sustainably sourced from family orchards in Somerset and Kent, Kicking Goat Cider is all about keeping it real—100% fresh-pressed British apples, no concentrate, no shortcuts.

Whether you’re into crisp dry cider or something a little sweeter like Fresh Berry, there’s a flavor for every vibe. Plus, they come in lightweight, recyclable cans, so they’re picnic and BBQ-ready.

Made by James Pearce and his family, this cider is as real as it gets—simple, delicious, and full of apple-y goodness.

Check out @kickinggoatcider or head to kickinggoatcider.co.uk to see what all the fuss is about.

🍏 #CiderGoals
undefined
Introducing the most otterly amazing collab yet!

@drinkgoldenstate is partnering with @seaottersavvy, a non-profit dedicated to protecting sea otters and promoting responsible wildlife viewing. To celebrate, they've launched exclusive co-branded cans featuring sea otter artwork, plus fun merch to match!

Here’s the best part: A portion of the proceeds directly supports Sea Otter Savvy’s mission.

Here’s what’s in your can: 
🍎 100% fresh, cold-pressed West Coast apples 
🥂 Perfectly balanced with no added sugar for a crisp, refreshing taste 
🌱 Gluten-free & vegan-friendly 
🍏 6.1% ABV 
💥 Grab a 16oz 4-pack (webstore + taproom exclusive!) and join them at the taproom, where Sea Otter Savvy will be sharing their incredible work on sea otter protection.

Head to our link in bio to learn more about this collaboration and grab a pint for a great cause.

#GoldenStateCider #SeaOtterSavvy #CiderForACause #WildlifeConservation #DrinkCiderDoGood
undefined
Share This
Complete your gift to make an impact
Donate