With the majority of summer behind us, the time to break out the ciders for autumn is nearly upon us. But it can still feel too early to bust out the squash-and cranberry-flavored ciders. Transition into fall this month with these four ciders that are perfect mix of the season leaving and the one upon us. From a dry-hopped cider to a Northern Spy-single varietal, there is a drink for everyone who is still clinging to the last days of summer but may be getting excited to leap into fall.
Northern Spy | Citizen Cider
Named for the Northern Spy apples used in this single-varietal cider, Citizen Cider in Vermont has crafted a cider that is bright tasting and pure apple. Honoring the culture of New England, Citizen Cider has been making apples since 2010 and only uses apples native to the area. The Northern Spy has zesty acid that pairs well with the earthy, hardy flavor of the fruit used. The Northern Spy apples are in season during the fall, so it’s only fitting to drink this cider during this time.
Harvest Hoarder Chai Cider | Long Drop Cider Co.
Crafted in collaboration with a master of tea, Long Drop Cider Co.‘s autumn cider is a refreshing blend of fall spices and chai tea. Established in 2014, Long Drop is Idaho’s first production cidery and they have recently expanded production into neighboring Washington State. With every case sold, the cidery donates a pound of fresh fruit and vegetables to public schools in Idaho. Made with tea drinkers in mind, the Harvest Hoarder is made for anyone who wishes to continue drinking chai well after they are done drinking chai tea lattes.
Dry Hopped Cider | Finnriver Farm & Cider
Made with Cascade hops, Finnriver Farm & Cider’s is dry and features everything cider drinkers love about hop cider, and provides a gateway cider for discerning beer palates. Finnriver was started in 2008 with a mission is to reconnect people to the land and to grow local community. Based in Chimacun, Washington, Finnriver’s Dry Hopped offers grapefruit and pine notes, as well as floral and citrus flavors from the hops used, while still showcasing juicy, bold apple. Finnriver suggest drinking this cider at a barbecue which is perhaps a fun way to kiss summer goodbye.
Fall Harvest | Woodchuck Hard Cider
Woodchuck Hard Cider Cider boldly compares its Fall Harvest cider to an apple pie. Since both are made with apples, the comparison rings true. Along with apples, this cider is blended with cinnamon and nutmeg, spending time maturing with American white oak. One of the originals in the modern American cider scene, Woodchuck is situated out of Middlebury, Vermont, and has been producing cider since 1991. Inspired by farmers coming together to celebrate a successful year of farming, the Fall Harvest is a great beverage to have with friends to celebrate any occasion.