Cider's Refreshing Revival
Cider is in the midst of a lively renaissance, capturing the attention of consumers who are increasingly drawn to natural, artisanal beverages. Known for its clean profile, cider often boasts fewer additives and lower sugar content compared to industrial beers and canned cocktails—making it an appealing alternative, especially for those seeking a fruit-based option. It’s often gluten-free, winning over drinkers with dietary restrictions, while providing a unique alternative to beer.
Today’s craft ciders are far removed from the overly sweet, artificially flavoured options of the past. Innovations like wild fermentation and barrel aging have brought a new depth and complexity to the drink, much like the transformations seen in the craft beer and distillery movements. The cider market has evolved dramatically since the 90s, and Vancouver Island is home to some standout examples of this resurgence, from long-established favourites to exciting newcomers.
Crafting cider with tradition and innovation
One of the more traditional techniques making a comeback is wild fermentation, which uses natural yeasts found on apples and in the environment to produce complex, layered flavour profiles. Cideries such as Salt Spring Wild Cider House have embraced this method, creating ciders that reflect the unique characteristics of their local terroir. If you visit Salt Spring Wild’s beautiful farm property, you’ll definitely want to try their Hopped Apricot, Ginger Root, or for something really adventurous, the Salted Pineapple Perry.
Another technique that enhances flavor complexity is barrel aging. Sea Cider’s Rumrunner is a perfect example, aged in rum barrels to absorb rich notes of vanilla, oak and rum, adding an intriguing depth to the cider’s profile. We’ve incorporated Rumrunner into our Hard Thyme cocktail, a locally inspired drink that tastes like a boozy apple pie—but don’t worry, fresh lime juice balances the flavours and keeps it from being overly sweet. The combination of wild fermentation and barrel aging gives ciders the kind of bold, layered flavours that appeal to craft beverage enthusiasts, setting them apart from their mass-produced counterparts.
The return of forgotten apples
Another key to craft cider’s resurgence is the revival of heirloom apple varieties—apples that once played a central role in cider-making but have mostly disappeared from commercial production. Unlike the sweet dessert apples used in mass-produced ciders, heirloom varieties are rich in tannins and acidity, making them ideal for creating distinctive, artisanal ciders. Each region’s unique apple varieties impart specific flavour profiles to their local ciders, adding to the growing diversity in the craft cider market.
Here in B.C., the Okanagan Valley is particularly well-known for its cider apples, which have found favour with consumers who appreciate locally sourced, regional products. At the same time, this return to heirloom apples supports sustainable agriculture, encouraging biodiversity and the preservation of traditional orchards. Eco-conscious consumers are increasingly drawn to these efforts, seeing them as a way to support sustainable farming practices while enjoying beverages that reflect the character of their environment.
One notable cidery committed to sustainability is Merridale Cidery, a Cowichan Valley staple since 1990. Merridale earned the internationally recognized Biosphere Certification in 2023, solidifying their dedication to sustainable practices. Alongside their excellent ciders—Mo’Moro and House Cider are two standouts—they’ve also branched into craft spirits. Their Cowichan Spiced Rhumb even features in our Hard Thyme cocktail, adding a rich, warming kick. If you’re curious about why it’s called rhumb and not rum, well, that’s a bit of homework for you!
Planning a cider tour? Here’s where to go
If you’re considering a Vancouver Island Cider Tour, first of all—great choice! Secondly, make sure to have a designated driver as there’s lots to taste. Here are a few more great stops we recommend:
- Junction Orchard & Cidery is a new kid on the block, but has interesting styles and a lovely property near Prospect Lake.
- Victoria Cider Co. offers a beautiful, modern tasting room, a large menu with plenty of distinctive options, and is located on the Saanich Peninsula not far from Sea Cider.
- If you’re heading north, Raven’s Moon in Courtenay offers a farm setting with cheeky cider options to explore—perhaps someone’s in the mood for their Crabby Pants!
Wherever you are on the Island, there’s a cider waiting for you. And with more options popping up all the time, Vancouver Island is quickly becoming a cider lover’s paradise.
