Exploring Lake Chelan Ciders
If you’re reading this, you’re likely aware that the Lake Chelan Valley is famous for producing first rate wines. Visit the valley and you’ll see rolling hills of vineyard after vineyard. You might also know that before wine took over, we were widely known for our apple orchards. So it makes sense that a recent emergence of locally-grown hard cider has been creeping into the towns of Chelan and Manson. You might visit for the wine, but trust us when we say you’ll want to stay for the cider. There’s no better way to experience the quality and beauty of Lake Chelan apples. Here are some local cideries that are taking the valley by storm:
Steelhead Cider | 114 E Woodin Ave C, Chelan, WA
Not only does Steelhead Cider deliver some serious cider goodness, their tasting room atmosphere is great! Visit their dynamic tasting room in downtown Chelan where you can relax on the patio overlooking the Chelan River, enjoy a round of video games upstairs, or good conversation with a friend on the couch. Stop by later in the evenings for a lively evening of live music. Steelhead Cider offers a wide variety of their own ciders with creative flavors like Boysenberry, Chimera Cherry, and Ginger, but with 20 taps of both beer and cider on hand, they serve something that will satisfy just about everyone!
Washington Gold Cider | 3519 WA-150, Chelan, WA
One of the oldest cideries in the valley is none other than Lake Chelan Winery. Known for their delectable wine, delightful cheese and gift shop, and delicious BBQ in the Vineyard, Lake Chelan Winery also delivers an impressive selection of ciders! Hop across the grounds to their new Cider House to give their Washington Gold cider a try. We highly recommend trying their Northwest Raspberry! It pairs perfectly with sunshine and lake views.
ChelanCraft Cider | 804 W Manson Highway, Chelan, WA
ChelanCraft Cider is one of the newest cideries in the valley and offers a refreshing take on hard ciders. ChelanCraft Cider is located just a few blocks from downtown Chelan on Manson Highway. The tasting room may be tiny, but the cider packs a punch. After years of dabbling in making their own hard cider, the Flynns decided it was time to apply their passion and knowledge by opening their business. Try their signature Cider with Lemon or give one of their rotating flavors a go. With blends like Peach Apricot, Ginger Pear, or Blueberry, how can you resist? Get a tour of their facility and learn how these delicious ciders get made, then taste the creations themselves!
Bad Granny Cider | 1681 S Lakeshore Rd, Chelan, WA
Bad Granny Cider is known for being a distant relative to the local and beloved Karma Vineyards. But we think Bad Granny can stand all on its own. Grown from locally-sourced apples and curated with a knowledge of the French champagne methods, this cider is truly unique. Their semi-dry ciders explore varieties and blends that are rarely seen in the cider world. You can try a cider made from Granny Smith apples and Rainier cherries. Or try a bottle of their In The Flesh cider, made with Red Flesh apples (yes, they’re red on the inside too!). Whichever one you opt for, you’re in for a one-of a kind cider experience.
Rootwood Cider | 45 Wapato Way, Manson, WA
If you enjoy wine tasting, you’ll enjoy cider tasting at Rootwood Cider just as much. Their cider is artfully crafted. Made from different varieties of apples grown in their orchard, you’ll pick up distinct tasting notes and aromatics in the same way you would with wine. Enjoy tasting the subtle differences as you make your way through a tasting flight. Play a game inside or bask in the sun on their patio while enjoying light bites and a friendly environment. If you’re feeling adventurous, make an appointment to visit their orchard tasting room where you can get a tour and see where the magic happens!
Ready to taste some cider? We sure are. Head to the Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce for a local guide book or click here or a map of tasting rooms. Cheers on your cider tasting adventures!