A Guide to Oregon’s Splendid Cider Houses and Apple Orchards
Ah, Oregon…Our state is known for its natural splendor, but what often takes backstage is our vibrant apple and cider culture. Nestled amongst our verdant forests and craggy mountains are hidden gems of orchards and cider houses. Ready to explore? Here’s the insider’s guide to the must-visit cider houses and apple orchards in Oregon.
1. Portland Cider Co
Over in Clackamas, the Portland Cider Co blends the love of English cider traditions with the innovative spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Their ciders are crafted from 100% Northwest apples. Grab a seat at their cider house, sample their delicious variants and don’t forget to try the Oregon Wild – a community cider made of apples donated by locals.2. EZ Orchards
Located in Salem, EZ Orchards has been around since the early 20th century. Come autumn, folks from all across Oregon flock here for apple picking and cider tasting. Match the crisp fall air with a glass of their Hawk Haus Cider. It’s a timeless experience!
3. Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider
In heart of Northeast Portland lies a hotspot for cider lovers – Reverend Nat’s Hard Cider. Do try their Revival Hard Apple, an irresistibly tart and tangy potion that will leave you yearning for more. Every September, they host their annual Night of 1000 Tepaches party – a must-visit for cider enthusiasts!4. Draper Girls Country Farm
For a picturesque apple-picking experience, head to the Draper Girls Country Farm in the lush Hood River Valley. Pack a picnic, savor the majestic Mt. Hood views, and fill your basket with their diverse apple varieties. And yes, don’t leave without trying their non-pasteurized apple cider.5. Blue Mountain Cider Company
In Northeast Oregon, Milton-Freewater proudly hosts the Blue Mountain Cider Company. They are dedicated to creating cider using traditional methods and their range, including the Dry Creek blend, captures the authentic taste of Oregon.6. Kiyokawa Family Orchards
The Kiyokawa Family Orchards in Parkdale is renowned for its sprawling, fertile expanse of apple and pear trees. Their specialty is ‘Honeycrisp apples’, guaranteed to please your palate. Visit in September when their fruit stand overflows with dozens of apple varieties.7. Swift Cider
Swift Cider, with its taproom on NE Broadway in Portland, is known for its wild, yeast-fermented cider varieties. Its Marionberry cider, infused with Oregon-grown berries, is a local favorite. Grab a pint, or better yet, fill a growler to enjoy at home.8. Apple Valley Country Store
If homemade pies and jams are up your alley, then a trip to the Apple Valley Country Store in Hood River is a must. Beyond that, their vintage apple press churning out fresh cider is an autumn spectacle you don’t want to miss.9. E.Z. Orchards Farm Market
A second mention for the E.Z. Orchards is necessary for its Farm Market. Here, you can taste hard ciders, pick your own pumpkins, navigate a corn maze, and enjoy old-fashioned horse-drawn hayrides, all while feasting on homemade apple cider donuts.10. 2 Towns Ciderhouse
Finally, out in Corvallis, the 2 Towns Ciderhouse beckons. Their premium craft ciders, especially The BrightCider and Serious Scrump, perfectly capture the essence of the finest Northwest apples. Their tasting room is open all year round, so there’s no bad time for a visit.Now that’s a wrap on Oregon’s top cider houses and apple orchards. Remember, every place here has its unique charm and flavors just waiting to be discovered. So go on, explore. Because in Oregon, we don’t just grow apples – we turn them into experiences!