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!
Kingston Black
Reserve Series | Batch I.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 our most complex vintages, with bright notes of green apple, quice, white raisin and mandarin orange rind - balanced by earthy notes evoking leather and orchard floor.
Core Club 2024 Q4 Selection
Widdershins
Artisan Series | Batch 1.23
Our version of French Pommeau, this wondrous apéritif begins with Manchurian crabapple juice blended with apple brandy (from 2-Loons Distillery) to arrest fermentation and retain sweetness. Barrel-aging softens and harmonizes notes of cinnamon, black cherry and vanilla. A must-try, especially for Port wine fans!
Core Club 2024 Q4 Selection • General Release