Exploring Puget Sound: Your Ultimate Cidery Road Trip Guide

Discovering Washington’s Cider Scene: A Road Trip Guide

Washington State has garnered significant acclaim for its wines, particularly those from the Columbia Valley, which are now considered some of the finest in the world. However, the Evergreen State’s legacy began with apples. Renowned as the highest-yielding apple region globally, Washington produces an astonishing 10 billion apples annually, mainly for export. Thankfully, these apples are also being transformed into delightful ciders at home.

With over 100 operating cideries, many of which are estate cideries located right on the orchards that supply the juice, Washington offers a unique experience. Some of these cideries feature taprooms where visitors can taste a variety of ciders on-site. As the autumn season approaches, it’s the perfect time to explore these orchards and indulge in some fermented apple goodness. Why not make a road trip out of it? Below is a suggested itinerary for cider enthusiasts starting from the Seattle area.

Planning Your Cider Adventure

The drive from Seattle to Port Townsend takes about three hours without stops, particularly if you take the southern route around Puget Sound. While it’s technically possible to visit all suggested cideries in a single day, that would likely rush the experience. Instead, consider splitting the trip into two days to maximize enjoyment and relaxation.

Cideries to Visit

Schilling Cider House

Location: 708 North 34th Street, Fremont, Seattle
Schilling Cider House is a pivotal player in the local cider scene. Since its opening in 2012, founder Colin Schilling has pushed the envelope with innovative ciders and sustainable practices, transitioning cider from bottles to cans. The Fremont location boasts 32 taps, holding the record for the most cider taps in a single taproom at the time of its opening in 2014. Here, you can explore unique blends like the Excelsior Day-Glo, made with Lucy Glo apples, alongside a curated selection from global cideries. The cozy atmosphere, complete with board games, invites visitors to create their own tasting flights.

Puget Sound Cider Company

Location: 924 South 3rd Street, Renton
Known for its small-batch and award-winning ciders, Puget Sound Cider Company operates within an antique store, providing a charming backdrop for tastings. Founded in 2017 by Nick Hill and Holly Coleman, this cidery prioritizes traditional cider-making techniques, utilizing heirloom apples and local fruits. With over 80 awards to its name, their ciders offer a drier, refined profile reminiscent of classic French and English styles. For those unable to visit, PSCC ciders are also available at Pike Place Market.

Cockrell Cider Farm

Location: 6613 114th Avenue Ct E, Puyallup
Nestled on a picturesque 7-acre historic farm near downtown Puyallup, Cockrell Cider Farm is an idyllic spot for cider lovers. Founded by brothers Richard and John Cockrell, the farm features handcrafted ciders made from its own apple varieties. With local food trucks and live music on Thursday nights, it’s a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy a dozen different ciders, including seasonal favorites. The farm’s beautiful orchard showcases espalier-trained trees, creating a stunning visual experience for visitors.

Rockridge Orchards & Cidery

Location: 40709 264th Avenue Southeast, Enumclaw
Rockridge Orchards has been crafting cider since 1982 and prides itself on using apples from its family-owned orchard. The cidery offers a mini taproom hidden behind the Rockridge Country Store, featuring 43 draught ciders and beers. Visitors can explore a farm stand stocked with local produce and unique pantry items. It’s a perfect stop for cider enthusiasts looking to try something new.

Locust Cider

Location: 3207 57th Street Ct, Gig Harbor
As the flagship location for Locust Cider, this taproom offers a family-friendly environment with 14 original hard ciders on tap. Known for their slightly sweet flavors, guests can enjoy a variety of seasonal blends. The taproom features both indoor and outdoor seating, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy cider with family and friends.

Bushel & Barrel Ciderhouse

Location: 201 NW Beaver Ridge, Poulsbo
Located next to a farm featuring friendly animals, Bushel & Barrel Ciderhouse combines a charming atmosphere with unique ciders. Founded by Melissa Kittrell, this cidery offers unfiltered ciders with flavors ranging from traditional apple to creative blends like taro and vanilla malt. The cidery also supports social causes, with a portion of profits going to charitable efforts.

August Cider

Location: 10764 Northeast Berry Street, Kingston
August Cider focuses on producing small-batch, terroir-driven ciders made from apples grown in their on-site orchard. The cidery emphasizes soil health and biodiversity, resulting in a wide range of cider styles. For those looking to extend their visit, August Cider offers a cozy farmstay experience with beautiful views.

Sisters’ Cider House

Location: 921 Hildebrand Lane, Bainbridge Island
This family-run cidery is known for its fun atmosphere and rotating selection of creatively named ciders. With arcade games and a welcoming environment, Sisters’ Cider House makes for a delightful stop. Visitors can bring their own food and enjoy the casual vibe.

Finnriver Farm and Cidery

Location: 124 Center Road, Chimacum
Finnriver is more than just a cidery; it’s a sprawling compound featuring orchards, a taproom, and live music. With a diverse range of ciders and a commitment to local food, it’s a must-visit destination for cider lovers. The taproom often showcases unique flavors that can’t be found in stores.

Alpenfire Cider & Orchard

Location: 220 Pocket Lane, Port Townsend
As Washington State’s first certified organic cidery, Alpenfire offers a luxurious cider experience. With over 800 heirloom apple trees, their ciders focus on showcasing the unique flavors of each apple variety. Guests can enjoy tastings in a serene orchard setting, making for a memorable visit.

Dragon’s Head Cider Orchard

Location: 18201 107th Avenue Southwest, Vashon
Dragon’s Head Cider Orchard is dedicated to quality cider-making, with a massive 8-acre orchard featuring thousands of apple and pear trees. Visitors can enjoy a farm-to-glass experience, learning about the cider-making process while sipping on their delicious offerings.

Exploring More Cideries

For those looking to further expand their cider adventure, consider additional destinations like Lake Chelan or Spokane, where more unique cideries await. With a plethora of apple varieties grown throughout Washington, the potential for discovering new and exciting ciders is endless. So grab your friends, hit the road, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cider culture of Washington State!