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!
Brown’s Barrel
Reserve Series | Batch D.24
Brown’s is a classic "bittersharp" apple that seems to love our region, bearing profusely and yielding an unusually balanced profile. This one-off version was aged post-fermentation in fresh whiskey barrels from Dry Fly™ distillery, adding flavor notes reminiscent of oak, flan, vanilla and crème brulée.
Core Club 2024 Q2 Selection
Kingston Black
Reserve Series | Batch E.24
Of all cider varietals, Kingston Black is likely the most famous, due to its ideal balance of aromatics, flavors, acids and tannins. Here’s one of the best – including oaky notes derived from the fruit itself (not barrel aged). Enjoy as a sipper or pair with cheese and charcuterie, or rich duck or pork-based meals.
Core Club 2024 Q2 Selection
Dabinett
Reserve Series | Batch F.24
Dabinett apples have been a favorite cider varietal since their 1900-ish discovery in Somerset, UK. Green apple and bruised citrus aromas open for apple peel, dried fruit, peach skin and rose hip flavors, with a strong, lingering, oaky tannic finish. Austere.
Core Club 2024 Q2 Selection