Maker Notes
Research and development (but with cider!)
Why notes?
Taste, of course, is a highly subjective thing. But cider making is an art and a science. Cider apples have unique flavor characteristics - which for nerds like us - are worth noting, helping expand our appreciation and enjoyment of each cultivar. Tasting notes can also identify how apples respond to growing conditions – helping us make better, more delicious choices in how and where to grow varietals. This library details nearly every cider we’ve made since 2019, using a common “spider chart” format ranking 18 criteria ranging from basics like sweetness, tartness and astringency to how each cider recalls other fruit and spice categories. Members of our Core Club receive copies of these with each shipment, along with a crib sheet providing background on how we define our criteria - making it easy and fun for fans to compare their experiences with ours.
Use the search tools below to explore the archive, noting batch numbering for each release, wherein the first digit(s) represent product sequence followed by abbreviated year of release. Above all, enjoy cider!
Columbia Crabapple
American Singles | Batch 1.22
Developed in the late 1800s, Columbia Crabapples were bred to survive harsh Canadian winters. Ours – grown in the warm Yakima Valley – yield a cider offering honeysuckle aromas and rich flavors including Meyer lemon, honey and buttercream. Crisp and refreshing!
General Release
Golden Russet + Columbia Crab
Reserve Series | Batch 10.20
This one-off blend marries varying profiles from two of our favorites, expressing quince, peach preserve, apricot ripe citrus and herbal notes. Barrel-aging helped soften the Columbia's tart edges, while adding a touch of butter on the nose.
Core Club 2020 Q4 Selection