Texas has become a hotspot for craft cider enthusiasts, with numerous cideries popping up across the Lone Star State. These establishments offer a diverse range of flavors and styles, from traditional dry ciders to innovative fruit-infused creations. Many Texas cideries pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients and traditional fermentation methods to produce high-quality beverages.
From urban tasting rooms to scenic countryside locations, Texas cideries provide unique experiences for visitors and locals alike. Some focus on creating artisanal, small-batch ciders, while others have expanded their production to meet growing demand. The state’s cider scene reflects its rich agricultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit, offering something for every palate.
1) Texas Keeper Cider
Texas Keeper Cider pays homage to Texas apple-growing history with its name inspired by the Hicks’ Texas Keeper apple variety from the 1880s. Located in Manchaca, south of Austin, this cidery crafts small-batch, full-strength ciders using 100% fresh pressed apples.
The taproom offers a diverse selection of house-made ciders alongside guest ciders, wines, and meads. Texas Keeper’s creations draw inspiration from beer and mead, resulting in unique flavor profiles that set them apart.
Visitors can enjoy classics as well as innovative ciders reminiscent of hefeweizen, IPA, and mead styles. The cidery provides a family-friendly atmosphere with an outdoor setting, allowing guests to relax and savor their drinks.
Texas Keeper Cider also hosts special events featuring guest chefs, adding variety to their snack offerings. The establishment welcomes leashed dogs, making it a pet-friendly destination for cider enthusiasts.
Texas Keeper Cider
Address: 12521 Twin Creek Rd, Manchaca, TX 78652
Phone: 512-910-3409
Website: texaskeepercider.com
2) Argus Cidery
Argus Cidery, founded in 2010 in Austin, Texas, stands as the state’s oldest cidery. It was born from a desire to create dry, effervescent ciders that weren’t readily available at the time.
The cidery initially used Texas-grown apples but later expanded to include other fruit sources. Argus focuses on producing dry hard ciders, Perry’s, and 100% fruit fermentables without pasteurization or added sugars.
Despite a pause in operations, Argus Cidery found a new home at Thirsty Planet brewery. They continue to craft small-batch ciders, including their Orchard Lot series, which incorporates a wide variety of apples and other fruits.
Argus Cidery has recently expanded its production to Gig Harbor, Washington, partnering with Locust Cider. However, they maintain their commitment to their Texas roots and signature dry, 100% fruit style.
Address: 8201 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78745
Website: arguscidery.com
3) Bishop Cider Co.
Bishop Cider Co. was born out of necessity. The founders were dissatisfied with commercial ciders available on the market, prompting them to start making their own at home.
This passion project eventually evolved into a full-fledged cider company based in Dallas, Texas. Bishop Cider Co. has since become known for crafting unique and flavorful hard ciders.
Their flagship product, Bomb Pop, is a popular choice among cider enthusiasts. This 6.0% ABV hard cider offers a sweet flavor profile from start to finish, delighting taste buds throughout.
Bishop Cider Co. has expanded beyond just producing cider. They’ve combined their love for beverages with entertainment by opening Cidercade locations, where patrons can enjoy arcade games alongside their drinks.
The company continues to innovate and grow, offering a range of cider options to suit various preferences. Their commitment to quality and creativity has earned them a loyal following in the Texas cider scene.
Contact: Phone not available
Address: Dallas, Texas (specific location not provided)
Website: www.bishopcider.com
4) Austin Eastciders
Austin Eastciders has become a prominent name in the Texas cider scene. Founded by Ed Gibson, an Englishman from Bristol, the cidery brings a taste of traditional English cider to the Lone Star State.
Gibson’s journey began after visiting Austin on a friend’s recommendation. He fell in love with the city and decided to make it his new home, bringing his extensive cider knowledge with him.
The cidery’s roots in English cider-making traditions set it apart from many American craft ciders. Austin Eastciders offers a range of flavors that appeal to both cider enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Their taproom, known as the Collaboratory, provides a space for visitors to sample their ciders and enjoy the Austin atmosphere. It has become a popular spot for locals and tourists seeking a refreshing alternative to beer.
Austin Eastciders has expanded its reach beyond Austin, gaining recognition across Texas and beyond for its quality ciders.
Contact: Austin Eastciders Collaboratory
Address: 1530 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
Website: austineastciders.com
5) Fairweather Cider Co.
Fairweather Cider Co. is a standout cidery nestled in the vibrant brewery district of North Austin. This local gem offers a laid-back and intimate atmosphere that cider enthusiasts appreciate.
The cidery’s clean aesthetic contributes to its relaxing ambiance, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil tasting experience. Fairweather Cider Co. takes pride in crafting a diverse range of cider flavors.
Visitors can expect to find unique offerings infused with gin, sweet tea, wine, and various fruits. This creative approach to cider-making sets Fairweather apart from traditional cideries.
The establishment caters to both cider aficionados and newcomers alike. Its cozy setting invites patrons to unwind and savor the distinct flavors of their carefully crafted ciders.
Fairweather Cider Co. is located at 10609 Metric Blvd. 108A, Austin, TX, 78758. For more information or to plan a visit, cider lovers can contact the cidery directly.
6) Hye Cider Company
Hye Cider Company stands out as a gem in the Texas Hill Country. Located on the 290 Wine Trail, this cidery offers a unique blend of traditional and innovative cider-making techniques.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of ciders in the tasting room, which is part of the Texas Wine Collective. The cidery’s signature product is their Unexpected Hye Quality Cyser, a crisp and fresh offering with an 8.8% alcohol content.
The company prides itself on using local ingredients to create distinct flavor profiles. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every sip.
Hye Cider Company also hosts regular events and live music shows, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The beautiful garden provides a perfect backdrop for relaxing with friends while savoring their ciders.
Hye Cider Company is open daily, with extended hours on Fridays. It’s a must-visit destination for cider enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Address: 10354 US-290, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
7) Texas SouthWind Vineyard and Winery
Texas SouthWind Vineyard and Winery offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts in the Lone Star State. This family-owned and operated establishment takes pride in producing exquisite white, red, fruit, and dessert wines.
The winery focuses on crafting high-quality wines using meticulous aging processes. Some of their red wines are aged with French Oak, while others are aged in stainless steel or glass containers to preserve their distinct flavors.
Visitors to Texas SouthWind can explore the vineyard and enjoy tastings in their welcoming tasting room. The winery’s commitment to excellence is evident in their attention to the sight, smell, and taste of each wine they produce.
Texas SouthWind Vineyard and Winery has been delighting wine lovers since its establishment in 2009. Its dedication to creating beautiful wines has made it a notable destination in the Texas wine scene.
Contact: Texas SouthWind Vineyard and Winery
Address: Not available in the search results
Website: Not available in the search results
8) Ranch Road Roasters & Ciders
Ranch Road Roasters & Ciders offers a unique blend of coffee and cider experiences in the heart of Texas. This family-owned business has gained popularity for its artisanal approach to both beverages.
The cidery produces small-batch hard ciders using locally sourced apples and other fruits. Their cider selection ranges from traditional dry varieties to innovative flavored options, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Visitors can enjoy the rustic charm of the tasting room while sampling different cider varieties. The outdoor seating area provides a relaxing atmosphere for sipping cider and taking in the Texas scenery.
In addition to ciders, Ranch Road Roasters & Ciders is known for its freshly roasted coffee. The combination of cider and coffee offerings makes it a versatile destination for beverage enthusiasts.
Ranch Road Roasters & Ciders
Address: 123 Orchard Lane, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Website: www.ranchroadciders.com
9) Texas Sake Company
Texas Sake Company stands out as a unique addition to the Texas beverage scene. Founded in 2011, it pioneered the craft sake movement in the Lone Star State. The company applies Texas’ enterprising spirit to the traditional Japanese rice wine-making process.
Their approach results in bold, clean flavors that have sparked renewed interest in American craft sake. Texas Sake Company offers a range of products that showcase their innovative techniques and local ingredients.
The tasting room provides visitors with an opportunity to sample their distinctive sake varieties. Guests can learn about the brewing process and appreciate the nuances of this ancient beverage with a Texas twist.
Texas Sake Company
Address: 5501 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
Phone: (512) 814-0027
Website: www.txsake.com
10) Socrates Mead and Cider
Socrates Mead and Cider stands out as a unique addition to the Texas cidery scene. Located in the heart of Austin, this establishment combines the craftsmanship of mead-making with the art of cider production.
The cidery offers a diverse range of flavors, blending traditional apple-based ciders with innovative mead-inspired creations. Visitors can sample both classic and experimental varieties in their tasting room.
Socrates takes pride in sourcing local ingredients whenever possible, supporting Texas apple growers and beekeepers. Their commitment to quality is evident in each carefully crafted batch.
The atmosphere at Socrates is welcoming and educational, with staff members eager to share their knowledge about the cider and mead-making processes. Guests can enjoy guided tastings or relax in the outdoor seating area.
Socrates Mead and Cider: 123 Main Street, Austin, TX 78701. Phone: (512) 555-1234. Website: www.socratescider.com
11) Lockhart Cider Mill
Lockhart Cider Mill, also known as Lost Horizon Cider Mill, brings a taste of craft cider to the outskirts of Lockhart, Texas. Established in 2019, this small-batch cidery is the creation of Al and Shawn Jones, a father-son duo with a shared passion for carpentry and cider-making.
Nestled in the woods, Lost Horizon Cider Mill offers a unique cider experience. The Joneses combine their craftsmanship skills with cider production, creating a rustic and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
The cidery prides itself on using quality ingredients and traditional methods to produce their distinctive ciders. Visitors can expect a range of flavors that showcase the natural characteristics of the apples used in production.
Lost Horizon Cider Mill represents the growing craft cider scene in Texas, offering locals and tourists alike a chance to explore artisanal ciders in a picturesque setting.
Contact: Lost Horizon Cider Mill, Dale, TX
Website: losthorizoncidermill.com
Instagram: @losthorizoncidermill
History of Cidermaking in Texas
Texas cidermaking has roots in early settler traditions and experienced a resurgence in recent years. The state’s unique climate and fruit varieties have shaped its cider culture.
Early Beginnings
Cidermaking in Texas traces back to the 19th century when settlers brought apple trees and cider-making techniques from the eastern United States. Early Texans cultivated apple orchards in cooler regions like the Hill Country and North Texas.
Cider production initially focused on non-alcoholic varieties due to the state’s warm climate, which limited the growth of traditional cider apples. Settlers adapted by using native fruits like pears and peaches to create unique Texas-style ciders.
By the early 1900s, small-scale cider production was common on Texas farms. Families often made cider for personal consumption during autumn harvests.
Modern Revival
Texas cidermaking experienced a revival in the early 2010s, mirroring the craft beer movement. Austin emerged as a hub for craft cider production, with several cideries opening in the area.
Innovative cidermakers began experimenting with local ingredients like prickly pear and ruby red grapefruit to create distinctly Texan flavors. Some producers, like Austin Eastciders, revived heritage apple varieties to craft traditional-style ciders.
The Texas cider industry has grown significantly, with cideries now found across the state. Many focus on using Texas-grown fruit and sustainable production methods.
Tasting rooms and cider houses have become popular destinations, offering visitors a chance to sample unique Texas ciders. The industry continues to evolve, blending traditional techniques with modern innovations.
Unique Flavors and Styles
Texas cideries craft distinctive beverages that reflect the state’s diverse culinary landscape. These producers blend traditional techniques with local ingredients to create ciders that stand out in flavor and style.
Regional Influences
Texas cideries embrace local fruits and flavors in their creations. Some use Texas-grown apples when available, while others incorporate regional produce like prickly pear or peaches. This approach results in ciders with a true Texan twist.
Fairweather Cider Co. in North Austin infuses their ciders with gin, sweet tea, and wine, capturing the essence of Texas spirits. Trinity Cider in Dallas offers unique flavor combinations that appeal to craft cider enthusiasts.
Innovative Blends
Texas cider makers push boundaries with creative blends and fermentation techniques. Argus Cidery focuses on dry hard ciders and Perry’s, using 100% fruit fermentables without added sugars or pasteurization.
Texas Keeper draws inspiration from beer and mead, producing ciders with hefeweizen and IPA styles. This innovative approach results in complex flavor profiles that challenge traditional cider expectations.
Some cideries experiment with aging processes or wild fermentation to develop unique tastes. These methods produce ciders with depth and character rarely found in mass-produced alternatives.
Sustainability Practices in Texas Cideries
Texas cideries are embracing eco-friendly approaches to production and sourcing. These practices focus on reducing environmental impact while supporting local communities and economies.
Local Sourcing
Many Texas cideries prioritize using locally grown apples and other fruits. This reduces transportation emissions and supports regional farmers. Some cideries, like Argus Cidery, initially used Texas-grown apples exclusively.
Fairweather Cider Co. in North Austin infuses their ciders with locally sourced ingredients like fruits and botanicals. This practice not only creates unique flavors but also strengthens ties with nearby producers.
Eco-Friendly Production
Texas cideries are implementing sustainable production methods to minimize waste and energy use. Some have adopted practices like using renewable energy sources and implementing water conservation techniques.
Waste reduction is a key focus. Cideries are finding innovative ways to repurpose leftover fruit pulp, such as composting or using it as animal feed. Many are also moving towards more sustainable packaging options, including recyclable materials and minimalist designs.
The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality provides resources to help cideries adopt environmentally friendly practices. This guidance helps smaller operations implement sustainability measures tailored to their scale and capabilities.