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!
Wakota
Reserve Series | Batch 7.23
Here's our first real trial of "Wakota", an new red-fleshed apple bred specifically for cider (and for us) by master grower Bill Howell in Prosser WA. Lovely apple, cherry and wild rose aromatics lead creamy pinapple, banana and strawberry/cranberry flavor notes. Think Sangria – but from one remarkable apple!
Core Club 2023 Prime Selection
Esopus Spitzenburg
Reserve Series | Batch 4.22
Discovered near Esopus NY in the late 1700s, many believe Spitzenburg apples are the finest of all American Heirloom varietals. Bottled in “Pét Nat” style, this one expresses quince, green apple, pear and white pepper notes.
Core Club 2022 Q2 Selection