Seattle, the emerald jewel of the Pacific Northwest, captivates visitors not only with its majestic natural landscapes and technological advancements but also with its diverse and rich culinary scene. Beyond fresh seafood and robust coffee, few know that Washington is also a cider capital. If you are a fan of this fermented beverage, don’t miss out on the unique cider tasting experiences Washington has to offer!
Discovering Washington’s Cider World
Washington is not only famous for its delicious Washington apples but also the birthplace of premium ciders. The mild climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for growing apples, the primary ingredient in this special drink. Washington ciders boast a wide range of flavors, from sweet and tart to slightly dry, catering to every palate.
Vast apple orchard – Quality source for Washington cider
Cider Tasting Experiences in Washington
To have a complete cider tasting experience in Washington, consider these suggestions:
Visit Cideries
One of the best ways to explore the world of cider is to visit cideries directly. Here, you can witness the cider-making process firsthand, from selecting apples, pressing juice, fermenting to bottling. Many cideries also offer tasting sessions, allowing you to discover different flavors and find your favorite cider.
Explore Cider Bars and Restaurants
In Washington, you can easily find bars and restaurants specializing in cider. These are ideal places to enjoy cider paired with local cuisine. Professional bartenders can advise you on ciders that suit your taste and suggest perfect food pairings.
Attend Cider Festivals
If you have the chance to visit Washington in the fall, don’t miss the cider festivals. This is an opportunity to taste countless different ciders, meet cider enthusiasts, and participate in fun activities and entertainment.
Buy Cider as Souvenirs
Cider is a unique and meaningful gift for friends and family. You can purchase cider at cideries, bars, restaurants, or specialty stores.
Popular Cider Types in Washington
Washington proudly boasts many renowned cider producers, each with its own recipes and styles. Here are some of the most beloved cider types:
- Dry Cider: This cider type is dry and less sweet, suitable for those who prefer the natural taste of apples.
- Sweet Cider: In contrast, sweet cider has a rich sweetness, often made from high-sugar apple varieties.
- Hopped Cider: This is a unique combination of cider and hops, creating a slightly bitter and fragrant flavor.
- Fruit Cider: This cider type is blended with other fruits such as pears, raspberries, blueberries, etc., bringing a fresh and appealing taste.
Variety of cider flavors available in Washington
Suggested Great Cider Tasting Locations in Washington
- Seattle Cider Company (Seattle): A renowned cidery known for its innovative and unique cider varieties.
- Finnriver Farm & Cidery (Chimacum): An organic farm and cidery producing cider with natural and rustic flavors.
- Whitewood Cider Co. (Olympia): A cidery focusing on traditional British and French cider styles.
- Capitol Cider (Seattle): A cider bar specializing in cider with over 200 different ciders available.
Pairing Cider with Delicious Food
Cider can be perfectly paired with various dishes, depending on the type of cider you choose. Here are a few suggestions:
- Dry Cider: Pairs well with grilled seafood, salads, or cheese.
- Sweet Cider: Excellent when enjoyed with desserts like apple pie, cinnamon rolls, or ice cream.
- Hopped Cider: Combines well with grilled meats, sausages, or spicy food.
- Fruit Cider: Suitable for fruit salads, pastries, or fruit-based desserts.
Also, when visiting Seattle, don’t forget to try other local specialties such as cedar-planked salmon, clam chowder, baked oysters with cheese, or steamed Dungeness crab for a complete culinary experience.
Cedar plank salmon – Excellent food pairing with cider
Conclusion
Washington is a paradise for cider lovers. With countless different cider types, unique cideries, and specialized cider bars and restaurants, you will have an unforgettable cider tasting experience. Plan your trip to Washington today and discover this exciting world of cider!