Growing Local: Hutton Settlement

We love our tiny taproom for several reasons, but first among them is that it tends to spur conversation, allowing us to get to know many of our patrons.

The 2020 Hutton Blend (Artwork by terrific local designer Chris Bovey!)

That’s how our relationship with Spokane’s Hutton Settlement began. When (at the time) Campus Director David Milliken dropped by, we learned about the institution’s plans to revive its farm-based programming – including its historic apple orchard. Predictably, chats about trees turned to the cider-making potential of apples still growing on the estate, along with what might get planted in support of Hutton’s plans.

Trees were few and crop yields light, but we found the idea of making a nano-batch from Hutton apples irresistible. Now in its second year, our “Hutton Settlement Estate Blend” utilizes a smattering of feral apples left from the historic orchard, apples from newly-planted trees, and roughly 30% of the yield from ornamental crabapple trees that line Hutton’s entry drive.

All six cases (nano-batch indeed!) from the 2020 crop – produced with native yeast and bottle-conditioned (a la Méthode Champenoise) – were donated to Hutton. None were offered for public sale, but we hear many were provided as gifts to lucky supporters and staff, or otherwise used to support Hutton’s terrific foster home mission.

The 2021 crop wasn’t much larger, but as with all things agriculture, patience is essential. David and his crew continue to plant new trees, and the tradition of making a cider from each year’s harvest is off to a great start. Who knows? In time, perhaps there’ll be an annual Hutton blend for public sale.

Ours is a tiny role, but Liberty is truly honored to partner with and support the long-term plans of Hutton Settlement. For more, see the foundation’s website, linked here.

Hutton Settlement

Historic photo ca. 1924, with the original campus’ apple and other fruit trees shown in the foreground.

Crabapples

These red-fleshed crabapples line much of the entry drive at Hutton Settlement. As part of the 2020 blend, they provided significant flavor and aromatic notes, along with lots of tannic structure.

Hutton Settlement

Hutton Settlement has provided a loving foster home environment for orphaned children and young adults since 1919.

2020 Batch

At just six cases, our first run of Hutton Estate Blend cider was a tiny batch - but a labor of love. Label art was re-purposed from a poster custom-designed for Hutton by local graphic artist Chris Bovey. To see (and purchase) many of Chris’ prints, see his shop at Etsy.

COVID-19 Update

After several weeks of near-lockdown, State officials have determined Spokane County eligible for partial re-opening of stores and restaurants under Phase 2 of the Safe Start Washington plan.

Effective Saturday, May 23, our taproom will be open for regular service with several safety-related restrictions listed below. We’re also resuming normal business hours, though we may adjust these according to demand.

Per Phase 2 Safe Start Washington guidelines, here’s what to expect when you visit our taproom:

• All orders will be taken at the bar register

• There will be no paper menus

• Hand sanitizer will be accessible for all patrons

• Bar seating is not allowed

• Weather permitting, our outdoor seating (three tables) will be set up, spaced and operated as regular tables

• Tables will be cleaned and sanitized between each use

• Employees will wear masks and utilize disposable gloves while serving customers

• Spokane County officials have strongly recommended everyone wear masks while in public, and while this isn’t enforced, we hope our customers will take part

• We will maintain a voluntary guest log, allowing officials to contact customers if transmission-related news or needs arise.

Like many small businesses, we’ve built Liberty as a place that fosters friendships and community. For this reason, we recognize things won’t feel the same. But with the health of our friends and community at-risk, we also know that “the same” just isn’t possible…at least for now.

In the meantime, we’re thankful to be able to re-open under Safe Start Washington, and yes, see and reconnect with many of you, our dear friends and fellow cider-lovers.

We look forward to seeing you!