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.
