Vermont has gained a reputation for its picturesque landscapes, artisanal food products, and thriving craft beverage industry. When it comes to cider production, the state is home to some of the top cider producers in the country. Vermont’s unique climate, fertile soil, and commitment to sustainable farming practices make it an ideal location for growing the high-quality apples needed for cider making. In this article, we will explore some of the top cider producers in Vermont and what sets them apart in the world of craft cider.
**Citizen Cider**
One of the most well-known cider producers in Vermont is Citizen Cider. Founded in 2010 in Burlington, Citizen Cider has made a name for itself by creating innovative and flavorful ciders using locally sourced apples. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their sourcing practices, which prioritize working with local orchards and farmers. Citizen Cider offers a wide range of ciders, from traditional dry ciders to experimental blends featuring unique ingredients like ginger and hops. Their dedication to quality and creativity has earned them a loyal following both in Vermont and beyond.
**Shacksbury Cider**
Another standout cider producer in Vermont is Shacksbury Cider. Founded in 2013 in Vergennes, Shacksbury is known for its focus on heritage cider apples and traditional cider-making techniques. They work closely with orchards in Vermont and New England to source rare and heirloom apple varieties, resulting in ciders that showcase the depth and complexity of these unique apples. Shacksbury’s ciders are often barrel-aged and fermented with wild yeast, adding layers of flavor and character to their products. With a commitment to sustainability and a passion for preserving cider-making traditions, Shacksbury has become a favorite among cider enthusiasts.
**Eden Specialty Ciders**
Eden Specialty Ciders is another top cider producer in Vermont that has gained recognition for its high-quality ciders made from locally grown apples. Founded in 2007 in Newport, Eden is known for its artisanal approach to cider making, utilizing traditional methods like wild fermentation and barrel aging to create ciders with exceptional depth and complexity. In addition to their cider lineup, Eden also produces ice ciders, a sweet and luxurious style of cider made by concentrating the sugars in the apples through freezing. Eden’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation has earned them numerous awards and accolades in the cider world.
**Windfall Orchard**
Windfall Orchard, located in Cornwall, Vermont, is a small-scale cider producer that has been making waves in the industry with its unique and flavorful ciders. Founded by a husband-and-wife team in 2011, Windfall Orchard focuses on using organic and biodynamically grown apples to create ciders that reflect the terroir of their orchard. They offer a variety of ciders, from traditional dry styles to more experimental blends that incorporate botanicals and other fruits. Windfall Orchard’s dedication to sustainable farming practices and their commitment to producing high-quality ciders have garnered them a dedicated following among cider enthusiasts.
**A Different Perspective**
While each of these cider producers has its own unique approach and style, they all share a common commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation. Vermont’s thriving cider scene continues to grow and evolve, with new producers emerging and pushing the boundaries of what cider can be. Whether you’re a longtime cider aficionado or new to the world of craft cider, Vermont is a destination worth exploring for its diverse and vibrant cider offerings. Cheers to the top cider producers in Vermont, who continue to raise the bar for excellence in the world of craft cider.
