A Guide to Oregon’s Best Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
There’s something enchanting about the way Oregon’s trees blush with golden leaves, an explosion of color against the serene green, topped off with that ready-to-pick apple orchards that foreshadow the coming of cider season. So, buckle up, cider lovers and apple enthusiasts – here’s an insider’s guide to ten of the finest cider houses and apple orchards only the heart of Oregon can offer.
1. E.Z. Orchards
One can’t talk about Oregon’s apple orchards without mentioning E.Z. Orchards. Situated in the fertile Willamette Valley, this family-run orchard has been delighting residents and visitors since the 1920s. Their fresh-pressed ciders are brag-worthy – particularly their semi-dry Hawk Haus. Festival lovers, look out for their annual Harvest Fest featuring pumpkin patches, hayrides, and the perfect autumn fun for the whole family.2. Apple Valley Country Store
Nestled in the breathtaking Hood River Valley, the Apple Valley Country Store is an apple haven. It’s renowned for its delectable huckleberry and marionberry pies as well as its apple jams, butters and yes, cider. Brave the brisk autumn breeze and take a drive along the Fruit Loop for a divine apple-picking experience against a backdrop of stunning Mt. Hood.
3. Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider
Based in Northeast Portland, Reverend Nat’s has a reputation for turning out some innovative ciders that take inspiration from as far afield as Belgium and Mexico. Go ahead and sample that Hallelujah Hopricot or the extraordinary Viva la Pineapple. Tours are infrequent, so better to call ahead for an appointment.4. Kiyokawa Family Orchards
Nothing speaks of an authentic Parkdale visit like a trip to Kiyokawa’s. An array of over 120 apple varieties and 20 pear types amount to a perennial fall favorite. Their McIntosh, Honeycrisp and other heritage apple varieties are definitely worth savoring. Plus, the panoramic view of Mt. Hood is a delightful bonus.5. 2 Towns Ciderhouse
Situated at the heart of Corvallis, the 2 Towns Ciderhouse has been serving up its crafted ciders since 2010. From the bright, crisp and citrusy Brightcider to the deliciously dark and bourbon-influenced Bad Apple, their flavor profiles aim to please palates across the spectrum.6. Carlton Cyderworks
In the charming town of McMinnville, you’ll find Carlton Cyderworks – a cider house dedicated to preserving orchard purity by avoiding artificial sweeteners in their ciders. From their Careless Wit to the Impearial Asian Pear Blend, every sip promises a delightful tale of fruit, fermentation and craftsmanship.7. Draper Girls Country Farm
Draper Girls offers a classic Hood River Valley experience with U-Pick apple opportunities, tractor rides and warm cinnamon-sugar donut indulgence. Their no-spray apple orchard produces some juicy cider offerings, worth every bit of your trip alongside the Columbia River Gorge.8. Portland Cider Company
In Clackamas, the Portland Cider Company fuses the apple wisdom of the English West Country with the flavors of the Northwest’s copious fruits. They have a cider for every taste, from Kinda Dry to Passion Fruit. Their free tours are best enjoyed while in possession of a tasting flight!9. Bellinger Farms and Gourmet Shoppe
Bellinger farms in Hermiston present an exciting cider journey, sided with a gourmet shop where you can buy apple butter, apple BBQ sauce and fresh-pressed cider from their orchards. As a tip, don’t miss their Apple Cider Days, a family-friendly event laced with hayrides, music, and good food.10. Cider Riot!
Always wanted to taste a wild fermented cider? Cider Riot! in Portland specializes in this kind, alongside other unique craft ciders. Drop-in for their farmhouse-style hard ciders like the Never Give an Inch Oregon Blackberry. Their industrial chic taproom is pretty cool too!There you have it – a splendid journey laden with apples, cider, and gorgeous Oregon views. So, go on then, fall is in the air, your cider adventure awaits! Plan those orchard visits, soak up the season, and discover what makes Oregon’s cider and apple scene truly magical.