A Local’s Guide to Oregon’s Best Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
Seasons shift and autumn leaves whisper a crisp, scented invitation. For lovers of artisanal refreshments and stunning landscapes, nothing beats touring Oregon’s cider houses and apple orchards. These gems, scattered across the state from Portland trails to Hood River, promise to deliver an authentic Pacific Northwest encounter. So, grab a jacket and come along!
1. Portland Cider Co.
Tucked away in Clackamas County, Portland Cider Co. earnestly marries the elegance of English cider with the adventurous spirit of Northwestern bounty. Locally sourced apples grace their ciders, offering a bouquet of refreshing flavors. Venture on a Friday, they typically host fun-filled events including music and food truck rallies.
2. Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider
Located in northeast Portland, Reverend Nat’s is famous for its diverse assortment of hard ciders that showcase a myriad of regional apples. Do drop by to try the Hallelujah Hopricot, a beautiful mix of apples, apricots, and hops that merits a tasting.
3. E.Z. Orchards
A day trip to Salem should definitely include a visit to E.Z. Orchards. This family-owned operation serves as both an apple orchard and cider house. Indulge in their semi-dry Roman Beauty Cider and grab some freshly-picked apples to create your own home-baked apple pies.
4. Carlton Cyderworks
Head over to McMinnville for a full-on cider experience at Carlton Cyderworks. They pride themselves on their traditional fermentation methods, giving each cider a unique and distinct flavor. Don’t miss their Citizen cider, perfect for pairing with Oregon’s famous Tillamook cheese.
5. Bauman’s Cider
With more than a century’s legacy in apple farming, the folks at Bauman’s Cider in Gervais definitely know their cider. Don’t leave without tasting Clyde’s Dry, a throwback to pre-prohibition era ciders. They also offer family-friendly pumpkin patches and farm events during the fall season.
6. WildCraft Cider Works
Eugene’s WildCraft Cider Works’ brand signature is on foraged, unsprayed regional fruits. Their creative cider flavors are a testament to Oregon’s rich, bountiful environment. Enjoy a guided tour, and see where the fruits transform into fantastic cider.
7. Runcible Cider
Resting on the fruitful Hood River Valley, Runcible Cider is an idyllic stop. This cider house and apple orchard offers tours and tastings against the backdrop of Mount Hood’s breathtaking view. Savor every moment with a glass of their Light of the Moon, a classic American-style cider.
8. 2 Towns Ciderhouse
Swing south to Corvallis and visit 2 Towns Ciderhouse. Known for their meticulous obsession with quality, they rely purely on local country apples. Check out their ciders, but be sure to taste their signature BrightCider, a crossover between traditional and modern apple cider.
9. Apple Valley Store
Just when you thought a day in Hood River was complete, there’s Apple Valley Store, serving up fresh pies, barbecue, and most importantly, homemade cider. Head up in the autumn months, when the harvest is at its peak, and you’ll be greeted with the joy of a classic country store.
10. Rack & Cloth
Mosier is home to Rack & Cloth, loved for its boutique ciders made from vintage apple varieties grown right there on their farm. End your day with a relaxed sunset and a glass of their dry, complex cider. Their unique cider names, like ‘Betwixt’ and ‘Bloom,’ echo nature’s own poetry of the Oregonian landscape.
Navigating through cider houses and apple orchards in Oregon is no less than a treasure hunt, unwrapping layers of history, tradition, and craftsmanship. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, these wholesome locales promise a harvest of memorable experiences. So, here’s to crisp autumn days filled with apple-scented delight, beautiful Oregon vistas, and cider glasses raised high in toast!