Oregon’s Liquid Gold: A Guide to the Best Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
Oregon. Known for its verdant valleys, snow-capped mountains, and the pristine Pacific coastline. It’s also home to a booming cider industry and some of the best apple orchards. It’s about time someone spilled the beans on the best spots to get that crisp glass of cider or pick your own apples. Get ready, folks, because here is your ultimate guide.
1. Oregon Heritage Farms, Hillsboro
Relish the authentic Oregon fall at this family-owned apple orchard. Known for their Honeycrisp variety, it’s a great spot for an afternoon apple-picking trip. Looking to sip some farm fresh cider? Their sweet cider is made from a carefully chosen blend of apples and is sure to be a delight on the taste buds.2. E.Z. Orchards, Salem
Perhaps the best known of Oregon’s cider makers, E.Z. Orchards has been fermenting apples since 1929. The taste? It’s as delightful as the beautiful Willamette Valley, where the fruits are grown. Don’t miss their cider tasting events in mid-October, it’s like quenching your thirst with a bit of history itself.
3. Reverend Nat’s, Portland
Deep in Portland’s urban scene, Reverend Nat’s is pushing the experimental boundaries of cider making. If you’re up for an adventure, try their Hallelujah Hopricot cider, a delicious blend that merges the dry hop of beer with the sweet undercurrent of apples.4. Apple Valley Country Stores, Hood River
Located in the heart of Hood River’s rich apple country, this store is a must-visit. Try their hand-dipped caramel apples or warm apple pie. Best of all? The fresh apple cider donuts that taste like they’re straight from apple heaven.5. 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis
Nestled in the heart of Oregon’s agricultural mecca, 2 Towns crafts their cider with 100% fresh pressed apples. Be sure to try their popular OutCider, a semi-dry cider, or the seasonal Nice & Naughty spiced cider. Remember to take a growler home, you won’t be disappointed.6. Mt. View Orchards, Mount Hood
With views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, this is apple picking with an incredible backdrop. You can munch on their Golden Delicious apples while looking at golden sunsets. The Mt. View cider is one not to miss – it’s fresh, delicious and captures the flavor of a classic Oregon autumn.7. Portland Cider Company, Clackamas
Concerned about gluten? Portland Cider Company ciders are all gluten-free! This family-owned cidery offers a variety of ciders from traditional dry to pineapple rosé. For those who are into citrus, Kinda Dry cider is a must-try.8. Kiyokawa Family Orchards, Parkdale
How does an orchard with over 120 apple varieties sound? Located in the upper Hood River Valley, Kiyokawa is a perfect spot for apple enthusiasts. Along with the well loved Honeycrisp, check out unique varieties like Pink Pearl and Zestar.9. Carlton Cyderworks, McMinnville
This gem pours small-batch craft ciders that combine heritage cider trees with traditional methods. Check out their Slake cider – it’s a smooth semi-dry treat with robust flavors of apples, earth, and caramel. A trip to their tasting room in the Yamhill Valley promises a satisfying sip and scenic views.10. Smith Berry Barn, Hillsboro
A destination in its own right, Smith Berry Barn offers pick-your-own apples, homemade jams, and stunning gardens. Their freshly pressed cider is a seasonal favorite and makes fall in Oregon that much sweeter.After traveling from Hood River to Portland, and from Hillsboro to Salem, you’ll get an authentic taste of Oregon cider. It’s more than just a drink, it’s a legacy carried on by families who have planted, pruned, and picked apples for generations. So, pour yourself a crisp glass of Oregon’s liquid gold, and refresh, rediscover, re-imagine what cider can be.