A Local’s Guide to Oregon’s Best Cider Houses and Apple Orchards

Grab a sweater and lace up your boots, we’re about to embark on a journey through the apple-scented landscapes of Oregon. This is the real taste of the Pacific Northwest, from humble apple orchards to rustic cider houses. Set amid majestic mountain ranges and lush farmlands, here are ten stunning destinations that showcase the best apple cider and orchards Oregon has to offer.

1. Portland Cider Company

Home to an array of award-winning ciders, Portland Cider Company crafts its beverages with Cascadia-grown apples. But their cider is only half the allure. The quaint cider house in Clackamas boasts food to pair with drinks, from hearty platters to light bites. Don’t miss out on their trivia nights, where locals gather to test their wit while savoring a refreshing pint.

2. Hood River Valley Fruit Loop

A favorite among locals, the Fruit Loop is a 35-mile scenic drive through the Hood River Valley’s farmlands. Along this cheerful route, you’ll discover numerous apple orchards, expansive vineyards, and rustic cider houses. Autumn is particularly magical here with its vibrant fall colors, and apple harvest season attracts a bevy of pick-your-own enthusiasts.

3. Red Tank Cider

Visit Bend and find Red Tank Cider, an establishment possessing a true Oregonian spirit. With a commitment to using 100% apple juice, they craft a range of hard ciders that capture the essence of the apple. Their cider lineup changes seasonally to keep things fresh and ensure every visit to their tasting room is a unique experience.

4. Apple Valley Country Store and Bakery

Picturesquely nestled in Hood River, the Apple Valley Country Store and Bakery is an old-fashioned country store offering just-picked apples, mouthwatering apple pies, alongside their sweet and tangy apple ciders. Be sure to stop by in October during the Apple Fest when you can partake in fresh cider pressing demonstrations.

5. Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider

Located in Northeast Portland, Reverend Nat’s deliver a unique tasting experience with their exotic ciders. With creations involving unusual ingredients like quince and beet sugar, cider lovers who appreciate a true artisanal flair will fall head over heels with their offerings. Their tasting room is open to visitors year-round, and their festive events are worth attending.

6. Mt. View Orchards

Family-operated for several generations, Mt. View Orchards in Parkdale offers breathtaking views of Mount Hood while you apple-pick in their vast 50-acre apple orchards. With over 50 apple varieties, the orchard affords an unforgettable experience of working the land, with the reward being the freshest, crunchiest apples you’ve ever tasted.

7. 2 Towns Ciderhouse

Situated in the heart of Willamette Valley, 2 Towns Ciderhouse is known for its innovative cider brewing techniques. Made from 100% Northwest apples, they aim to produce ciders that reflect the richness of Oregon’s agricultural landscape. Bonus points for their commitment to sustainability; they donate all spent apple pomace to local farmers.

8. Carlton Cyderworks

A rustic cider house located in the idyllic town of McMinnville, Carlton Cyderworks maintains strong ties to the local farming community. Visitors here will enjoy traditional hard ciders crafted with a variety of apple breeds from local orchards, including a few rare heirloom varieties. They also offer cider making classes for those interested in the process.

9. E.Z. Orchards

Visiting E.Z. Orchards in Salem is like stepping back in time. They’ve been growing apples since 1929 and crafting cider since 1996. Their Farm Market has an inviting country feel, selling everything from doughnuts to seasonal fruits. Make sure to swing by their cider tasting room to sample their French-inspired ciders.

10. Wandering Aengus Ciderworks

Located in Salem, Wandering Aengus Ciderworks harbors a passion for rare apple varieties. Using unusual, flavorful apples, they create their distinct, hard ciders. They have a welcoming tasting room where you can appreciate these unique flavors, and their friendly staff are always ready to answer any cider-related queries.

So, there you have it. Ten can’t-miss Oregon cider houses and apple orchards. Each place has their own unique charm and flavors, providing a real taste of Oregon’s exceptional beauty and bounty. It’s time to get out there and start sipping and crunching your way through these apple-loaded landscapes. Cheers to a cider-filled adventure!