A Local’s Guide to Oregon’s Finest Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
Oregon – its natural beauty is legendary, and so is its phenomenal apple cider. The region’s cool climate is perfect for growing some of the world’s best apples. Add the time-honored process of fermenting these beauties, and you get some seriously fantastic cider. This guide is your ticket to the cider houses and apple orchards that locals adore and visitors daydream about long after leaving.
1. Portland Cider House
Located in the heart of Portland’s lively Hawthorne district, this gem boasts one of Oregon’s widest cider selections. Each sip tells a story of the local apples used, and the knowledgeable staff make selecting a favorite a pure joy. Don’t pass up their rotating ‘tap of the month’ – a local insider’s tip!2. 2 Towns Ciderhouse
Situated in the lovely town of Corvallis, 2 Towns Ciderhouse puts forward an impressive array of innovative and traditional ciders. The cidery sources 100% of their apples from the Pacific Northwest – that’s authentic local flavor. Also, locals rave about the guided tastings sure to perk up the taste buds.
3. Kiyokawa Family Orchards
Meander through the picturesque Mount Hood valley to reach Kiyokawa Family Orchards – a destination loved for its impeccable apples and peerless mountain vistas. You can pick your own apples and enjoy a picnic amidst the gnarled apple trees. The views are worth the trip alone – Oregonians never tire of that glorious mountain backdrop.4. Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider
In the artsy Eliot neighborhood of Portland, you’ll find Reverend Nat’s, where the hard cider profiles range from dry to sweet, spiced to honey-infused. This place is all about unique apples like the heirloom Kingston Black and the aromatic Newtown Pippin. And locals know that their seasonal cider releases are not to be missed!5. Blue Mountain Cider Company
Make your way to Milton-Freewater in the northeastern part of the state to find Blue Mountain Cider Company. This ciderhouse has a serene outdoor patio with stunning views of the Blue Mountains – the kind of views that make Oregon the remarkable place it is. Remember to try their ‘Estate’ cider made entirely from apples grown on their farm.6. Hood River U-Pick Organic
If you’re all about knowing where your apples come from, there’s nothing quite like picking them yourself from the lush Hood River U-Pick Organic. Visitors flock here to pluck crisp Fujis right from the tree while savoring some of the most jaw-dropping views of Mount Hood you can find.7. E.Z. Orchards
E.Z. Orchards in Salem is another must-visit destination. Their ‘Farm Market’ is beloved for high-quality apples and a wide range of farm-made goodies. Local Oregonians anxiously await their annual ‘Ciderfest’ where you can watch traditional cider-making demonstrations and taste superb drafts.8. Bull Run Cider
In the heart of Forest Grove, Bull Run Cider celebrates Oregon apples in their finest, fermented form. They exclusively use freshly-pressed, non-GMO apples from locally-owned orchards. And the local tip? Try the strawberry-infused cider during the berry season!9. Smith Berry Barn
Smith Berry Barn in Hillsboro is equally revered for its apple orchards and its idyllic country charm. For a unique Oregonian experience, attend their annual Apple Festival – think wagon rides, apple tasting, and live bluegrass, an Oregon favorite.10. Cider Riot!
Tucked away in the Alberta district of Portland, Cider Riot! has a tasting room that boasts an eclectic variety of ciders. You can’t go wrong with their trademark packed-with-flavors ciders. Locals suggest chatting to the passionate cider-makers – it brings the whole experience alive!There you have it – some of the best and beloved apple orchards and cider houses in beautiful Oregon. Drinking crisp, refreshing cider or hand-picking the perfect apple under the wide Oregon sky is a way of life here. So go, delight in these delicious experiences! Because there’s no place quite like Oregon.