A Guide to Oregon’s Best Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
Oregon, a paradise nestled in the Pacific Northwest, is known for its diverse landscapes and unique agricultural bounty. Every fall, the state overflows with the bliss of apple season. Here, we explore the top-notch cider houses and apple orchards, a testament to Oregon’s rich apple heritage.
1. E.Z. Orchards
Located in Salem, E.Z. Orchards knows the magic of growing apples. They’ve been farming the fertile Willamette Valley land since the early 1900s. Visit in the fall season to pick a variety of apples and don’t forget to try their award-winning ciders.
2. Portland Cider Company
If you’re near Clackamas, make a stop at the Portland Cider Company. They serve an array of delectable ciders, all made from 100% Northwest fruits. Don’t overlook their scrumpy, a traditional English-style cider.
3. Smith Berry Barn
In the rolling hills of Hillsboro lays the delightful Smith Berry Barn. Their charming farm store offers a splendid variety of everything apple, from speciality jams to heirloom apple varieties. Take some time out for their Fall Harvest Festival, filled with apple tasting, cider pressing demonstrations and live music.
4. The Old Parkdale Inn
Set in the midst of the Hood River Valley, Old Parkdale Inn offers a unique experience of staying amidst apple orchards. Stay here and you’ll be centrally located to explore cideries such as Fox Tail Cider and Pear UP.
5. Applegate Orchards
Applegate Orchards in Grants Pass offers U-pick during the fall season. Pack a picnic, enjoy their diverse apple varieties and take part in their cider pressing classes. A trip to nearby Wooldridge Creek Winery later can be a cherry on the cake.
6. 2 Towns Ciderhouse
For cider enthusiasts, a visit to 2 Towns Ciderhouse in Corvallis is a must. Their guided tours provide a peek into their cider making process, and yes, tastings are part of the deal. Local tip: try their cider made from rare Kingston Black apples.
7. Kiyokawa Family Orchards
Journey to Parkdale and you’ll find Kiyokawa Family Orchards, home to over 100 apple varieties. Their Honeycrisp apples are a local favorite. Also, don’t miss their Apple and Pear Tasting event which happens every weekend in the fall.
8. Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider
Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider in NE, Portland, is worth a visit for any cider lover. Their flight of cider beverages can satiate even the most discerning palate. Be sure to try the Hallelujah Hopricot, a blend of apple and apricot fermented with a Belgian yeast.
9. Bauman’s Farm
Bauman’s Farm in Gervais draws crowds with its annual cider festival. Stock up on apple cider donuts, or try your hand at the apple shooting gallery. Remember to take home their farm-made cider; the crisp flavor is absolutely hard to resist.
10. Apple Valley Store
Located in Hood River, the Apple Valley Store is an essential stop for pie lovers. Break a journey along the Fruit Loop with their fresh, warm apple pie. While you’re there, browse through their cider selection, including their tart pie cherry cider.
Oregon’s apple legacy is as unique as the state itself. Each orchard and cider house holds its own story, bound by the ties of dedication, hard work, and love for this land. Come and be a part of this story, one apple at a time. Here’s to finding your favorite apple or cider in beautiful Oregon.