Apple cider has always been a fall favorite, but now a new twist on this traditional drink is taking Long Island by storm. Hard cider, a blend of apples, alcohol and the best fall flavors, has become a seasonal staple in the realm of adult beverages.
In the October issue of Pulse, we spotlighted LI winemakers at the forefront of the trend, which has seen exceptional growth nation-wide in recent years. An estimated 18 million people consider themselves hard cider drinkers in the US, according to a study done by Boston Beer Co.’s Jon London. Experts expect the industry will to continue to grow by 15 percent within the next five years.
Get in on the trend by sipping ciders that range from dry and crisp to sweet and sharp at five spots for hard cider on Long Island.
Related Content: Long Island Winemakers Elevate Hard Cider to Sparkling New Heights
Woodside Orchards, Aquebogue
Woodside Orchards is the North Fork’s cidery
It doesn’t get much better than this. Woodside Orchards employees grow, pick and press apples for a cider that’s as fresh as it gets. These sippers boast a 6.8 percent alcohol content and come in a variety of flavors like traditional and apple raspberry. Start with a glass, leave with a growler. Go.
Lieb Cellars, Cutchogue
image: lieb cellars tasting barn
These winemakers offer a custom brewed Rumor Mill Hard Cider made with fresh apples grown on Long Island’s North Fork. Roll out a blanket on the vineyard lawn and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with a glass or bottle of this dry sparkling cider. Go.
Hoptron Brewtique, Patchogue
This hip Patchogue bar boasts a large selection of high quality beers from microbreweries and beyond and is committed to changing the perception of beer through providing brews for all tastes and styles. Now that fall is in full swing, expect a variety of seasonal ciders. Go.
Wölffer Estate, Sagaponack
Christian Wölffer purchased a 14-acre parcel of land in 1978 that would later become the 55-acre Wölffer Estate Vineyard.
Back by popular demand, Wölffer Estate’s dry white cider and dry rosé cider are produced from fresh-pressed apples from New York’s best growers. Described by winemaker Roman Roth as having “a purity and elegance that is undeniably New York,” these ciders are sure to please your seasonal cravings. Go.
Coffee Pot Cellars, Cutchogue
Local beekeeper Laura Klahre and her winemaker husband Adam Suprenant collaborated to bring a special cider to the East End. It’s called cyser, and it’s made from fermented apple cider, fresh from Breeze Hill Farm, and, of course, honey. The special edition sipper has a consistency similar to sparkling wine or champagne and is currently available for sale and for tastings. Quantity is limited— head to the tasting room and sip this honey-infused cider before it’s too late. Go.