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!
Orchard Blend
Reserve Series | Batch B.25
A rare at-the-press mix (for us), this tasty blend was made with a collection of UK classics, complimented by one of America's best, the Golden Russet apple. Bittersweet apple, black currant, cinnamon and tobacco notes with caramel overtones and balanced astringency.
Core Club 2025 Q1 Selection
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
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
Kingston Black
Artisan Series | Batch 1.21
Notoriously hard to grow, Kingston Black is nonetheless the world’s most renown cider apple, presenting an ideal balance of flavor, tannins and acidity. Complex and layered – green apple, tangerine and spicy flavors with hints of caramel and tobacco; medium tannins and acidity. One of our very best!
General Release - 2022 Good Food Award Winner
Kingston Black
Reserve Series | Batch 06.20
Notoriously hard to grow, Kingston Black is nonetheless the world’s most renown cider apple, presenting an ideal balance of flavor, tannins and acidity. Baked apple and dried fruit flavors over white pepper, caramel and oaky notes; medium tannins. Delicious!
Core Club 2020 Q3 Selection