Oregon’s Apple of the Eye: A Guide to the Best Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
Oregon, known for its majesty, diversity, and rich agricultural history, has long been a haven for cider lovers and fruit enthusiasts. Drawing from vibrant apple orchards and a culture steeped in craft beverages, our local cider houses and farms offer unforgettable experiences. Here’s a local’s guide to Oregon’s best, curated specially just for you.
1. E.Z. Orchards
Located in Salem, E.Z. Orchards has been cultivating fruits since the 1920s. This family-owned farm is renowned for its heirloom apples, which are handpicked to produce high-quality ciders. Be sure to grab a fresh apple cider donut while you’re there – they’re an Oregon legend!2. 2 Towns Ciderhouse
Over in Corvallis is 2 Towns Ciderhouse, a top-tier cider producer known for its bold and flavorful range. From the tart ‘Rhubarbarian’ to the sweet ‘Serious Scrump’, there’s a pour sure to please every palate. If cider isn’t your thing, try their heirloom apple wine.
3. Kiyokawa Family Orchards
At the foothills of Mt. Hood in Parkdale, Kiyokawa Family Orchards offers visitors over 120 apple varieties. Come in autumn when the changing leaves match the hues of golden, red, and green apples. Don’t miss their Honeycrisp variety – they’re the talk of the town locally.4. Portland Cider Co.
Got some time in Portland? Head over to Portland Cider Co. Their cider menu is bursting with creativity, blending local Oregon fruits with international styles. Seek out their ‘Kinda Dry’ for a unique gin botanical infusion that’s quintessentially Oregonian.5. Apple Valley Country Store
Just a drive away in Hood River, Apple Valley Country Store is a must visit spot. This adorable country store is known for its Apple Butter barbeque sauce as well as offering U-Pick apples. Their fresh apple pies are the ultimate comfort food on those drizzly Oregon days.6. Hood River Organics
As you drive along Hood River’s Fruit Loop, stop by Hood River Organics. This farm offers organic apples grown using biodynamic farming, ensuring you are getting apples at their healthiest and tastiest. Try their famous Gravenstein for a real treat.7. Carlton Cyderworks
Join the locals who adore Carlton Cyderworks in McMinnville. Their handcrafted, flavorful ciders are reminiscent of the traditional English styles. Their Citizens’ Cider is a classic, but also keep an eye out for their seasonal releases.8. The Gorge White House
With a stunning backdrop of Mt. Hood, The Gorge White House in Hood River offers mouthwatering apple varieties, local wines, and hard ciders. Savor the local ambience amidst antique tractors and historical buildings dating back to the early 1900s.9. Bauman’s Cider
Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley in Gervais, Bauman’s Cider offers thirst-quenching innovation. Pop by the cider tasting room to experience their fun, eclectic cider varieties made purely with estate-grown fruits.10. Airlie Winery
While renowned for wine, Airlie Winery in the beautiful hills of Monmouth can’t be skipped for its remarkable apple wines. Made from local orchards’ fruit, their wine reveals unique notes only Oregon apples can bring. Try their Alpenglow for an unforgettable pour.We hope you enjoy embarking on this apple-laden journey. As diverse as our landscapes, the apple orchards and cider houses in Oregon provide something for every taste and preference. So, hop in the car, breathe in the crisp, fresh air, and unwind in some of our favorite spots across the state. This is doing Oregon the apple way!