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!

Artisan Series Rick Hastings Artisan Series Rick Hastings

Kingston Black

Artisan Series | Batch 1.21

Notoriously hard to grow, Kingston Black is nonetheless the world’s most renown cider apple, presenting an ideal balance of flavor, tannins and acidity. Complex and layered – green apple, tangerine and spicy flavors with hints of caramel and tobacco; medium tannins and acidity. One of our very best!

General Release - 2022 Good Food Award Winner

Read More
Reserve Series Rick Hastings Reserve Series Rick Hastings

Kingston Black

Reserve Series | Batch 06.20

Notoriously hard to grow, Kingston Black is nonetheless the world’s most renown cider apple, presenting an ideal balance of flavor, tannins and acidity. Baked apple and dried fruit flavors over white pepper, caramel and oaky notes; medium tannins. Delicious!    

Core Club 2020 Q3 Selection

Read More