Hard Ciders in Connecticut: The Ultimate Guide to Crisp, Local Sips
When the crisp fall air rolls into Connecticut, it brings more than just apple picking and pumpkin carving—it’s also the season for sipping on hard cider! Connecticut is home to some incredible cideries that craft unique blends perfect for cozy nights and festive gatherings. From dry to sweet, traditional to modern, let’s explore the hard ciders brewed right here in the Nutmeg State.
Connecticut might be small, but it packs a punch in the cider world. The local cideries here source apples from the region's orchards, taking advantage of New England's unique climate to create ciders with a flavor profile you won’t find anywhere else. Each sip is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the freshest apples around. Ready to dive in?
IN THIS ARTICLE WE’LL COVER
Must-Try Cideries and Fall Brews in Connecticut
What Makes Connecticut Ciders Special?
Food Pairings: Cider and Bites for Every Palate
Cider Events and Tastings: The Fall Fun You Didn’t Know You Needed
Where to Buy Connecticut Ciders
Must-Try Cideries and Fall Brews in Connecticut:
Bishop's Orchards Farm Market & Winery (Guilford): An orchard with a winery? Yes, please! Bishop's Orchards has been a local favorite for decades, and their hard ciders reflect their expertise in apple cultivation. The "Apple Cider Wine" is a crowd-pleaser, offering a blend of sweet and tart apples in every bubbly sip. For those looking for something extra festive, try their seasonal spiced cider—perfect for chilly autumn nights.
Spoke + Spy Ciderworks (Middletown): If you’re craving variety, Spoke + Spy is your destination. They pride themselves on small-batch cider-making, which means every bottle you try will have its own unique character. From the crisp "Dry-Spy" to the fruity "Pear Necessities," they have something for every cider lover. Fun fact: they also experiment with dry-hopped and botanical-infused ciders, so keep an eye out for their rotating seasonal offerings!
Hogan's Cider Mill (Burlington): A historic gem in Connecticut's cider scene, Hogan's Cider Mill has been pressing apples since 1912. Their hard ciders are made using old-world methods, offering a traditional cider experience with flavors like "Original Blend" and "Harvest Spice." Visiting the mill feels like stepping back in time, and enjoying a glass of their cider in the rustic taproom is the perfect way to celebrate fall.
B.F. Clyde's Cider Mill (Mystic): No list of Connecticut cideries is complete without mentioning B.F. Clyde's—the oldest steam-powered cider mill in the United States. Their hard ciders are crafted with care, using apples from their historic orchards. Try their "Spider Cider" or "Clyde’s Traditional" for a taste of true New England heritage. Bonus: their charming location in Mystic makes for a perfect fall outing.
Stony Creek Brewery (Branford) – Crum: While Stony Creek is best known for its craft beers, their seasonal hard cider, "Crum," is a must-try. This brew combines the flavors of fresh apples with a hint of cinnamon spice, creating a cider reminiscent of a warm apple crisp. It's perfect for sipping around a bonfire as the leaves change colors.
Little House Brewing Co. (Chester) – Apple Cider Donuts (Caramel and Coffee) Scottish Ale: While not a traditional cider, this seasonal brew brings the flavor of Connecticut's iconic apple cider donuts to life. Infused with caramel, coffee, and apple cider spices, this Scottish Ale is a delicious tribute to fall in Connecticut. It’s the perfect choice for cider lovers looking to try something a little different.
New England Cider Company (Wallingford): With a focus on high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques, New England Cider Company crafts ciders that are as authentic as they are delicious. Their flagship cider, "Fresh Blend," is a great introduction for newcomers, offering a balance of tart and sweet with a refreshing finish. For those looking for something different, their "Hopped Cider" brings a hint of bitterness to the apple base, creating a flavor profile beer enthusiasts will love.
What Makes Connecticut Ciders Special?
It’s all about the apples! Connecticut cideries often use a mix of heirloom, dessert, and bittersweet apple varieties, many of which are grown right here in the state. This gives their ciders a unique, full-bodied flavor that sets them apart from mass-produced brands. Plus, with local cider-makers putting their creative spin on traditional cider-making techniques, you’ll find flavors that range from the expected to the delightfully surprising.
Food Pairings: Cider and Bites for Every Palate
Cider isn’t just for sipping; it’s also a versatile companion to food. A dry, crisp cider pairs beautifully with sharp cheeses and charcuterie boards, while a sweeter, fruit-forward cider is the perfect match for spicy dishes like tacos or curry. For dessert? Nothing beats a warm apple pie with a glass of spiced hard cider. And if you're sipping on Little House Brewing Co.'s Apple Cider Donuts Ale, try pairing it with some actual cider donuts for a fall flavor explosion!
Cider Events and Tastings: The Fall Fun You Didn’t Know You Needed
Fall in Connecticut is brimming with cider-tasting events and festivals. Many cideries offer on-site tastings, tours, and special events, so you can learn about the cider-making process while enjoying the freshest ciders around. Check out Bishop's Orchards for a day of apple picking followed by a cider tasting, or visit Hogan's Cider Mill to experience cider-making the old-fashioned way.
Where to Buy Connecticut Ciders
If you’re looking to stock up, many Connecticut ciders can be found at local farmers' markets, specialty shops, and select package stores. Some cideries even offer online orders and delivery options, so you can have a taste of fall delivered straight to your door.
Connecticut Ciders: Your New Fall Tradition
With its blend of tradition, creativity, and top-quality apples, Connecticut's cider scene is the perfect way to toast the season. Whether you're a die-hard cider fan or a first-time taster, there’s a local cider out there for you. So, grab a glass, gather some friends, and savor the flavors of a Connecticut fall. Cheers to discovering your next favorite sip!
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Looking for the perfect fall indulgence? Al Roker's Bourbon Apple Pie Milkshake from his new cookbook Recipes to Live By blends the rich flavors of apple pie, creamy vanilla ice cream, and a splash of bourbon. This decadent treat is the ultimate way to savor the season. Grab the recipe and cozy up with this autumn delight!