Rich Dawn - page 22

In 1775, John Adams complained about the quality of Philadelphia alcohols in a letter to his wife Abigail. He was homesick for her cider. If John Adams were around Philly today he would be texting Abigail about the amazing hard cider that is being produced. It is the apple that was one of the first crops grown in America. Apples made the voyage over on the Mayflower. In Colonial America, fermented beverages were an important source of safe drinking water. Cider was the way that many started the day. An average of 35 gallons of hard cider, per person, was being consumed each year by the mid 1700’s. Prohibition nearly eradicated hard cider. The only apples that remained were eating apples. Many cider orchards were burned to the ground by die-hard temperance advocates. Fast forward to today. Cider has not only made a comeback, it is thriving. The Philadelphia Cider scene is fresh, vibrant and creative. Pennsylvania orchards are once again supplying delicious varieties that are perfect for pressing. Here are 5 cideries in Philadelphia that you need to check out and go back to again.

COMMONWEALTH CIDER

2440 Frankford Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19125
[email protected]

Website: www.commonwealthciders.com

Make the trip out to Kensington where you will enjoy all natural and gluten free-hard cider in the Peacock Room. This place boasts a lively neighborhood atmosphere and an outside beer garden. The line up includes a Traditional Dry cider, Gregarious Ginger, Black Cherry and a Razzberet Tart. They put out a delicious seasonal cider as well. Plan to stay a while because they are brewing up some sensational beer here too.

HALE & TRUE CIDER COMPANY

613 S. 7th Street Philadelphia, PA 19147 [email protected]

Website: www.haleandtrue.com

This chic taproom is located just a short walk off of South Street in the Bella Vista section of Philly. You will most likely find Kerry and Risa McKenzie sharing their passion for cider and cider production. The cider menu features The Standard, Hail To The Hop and Lil’ Sunshine. They are always creating a seasonal cider and you may discover a small batch release or two.

Kurant Brew & Brew CLOSED

436 E Girard Ave Philadelphia, PA 19125

Website: www.kurantbrewandbrew.com

In the heart of Fishtown you will find Joe Getz creating crisp, clean and honest to goodness delicious cider. Cans are waiting and ready for you to bring home your favorites. We would agree that their ciders have more similarities with white wine than with American ciders. Enjoy: Earth, Bees and Viejo with their “Exploration Series” in the taproom.

Original 13 Ciderworks

1526 N American St Philadelphia, PA 19122

Website: www.original-13.com

Kensington is the home of Original 13 Ciderworks is helping to lead the renaissance of a once industrious area. Here you will discover founder John Kowchak’s creation. Housed in a railroad shed it is an atmosphere for fun, conversation and first rate food. Sir Charles Hard Cider is named after John’s cider making grandfather. On tap you will find: Semi-Dry, Deep Blue Berry Sea and Strawberry Valkyrie. Seasonal’s are ready and waiting to quench your cider thirst.

Young America Hard Cider

6350 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19144

Website: www.youngamericancider.com

Young American are the new “old” kids on the block. They have been producing cider for years. Selling at farmers markets and festivals. They opened a quaint tasting room in the historic Germantown-Mount Airy section of Philly. There is a nice outdoor area with fire pits for when the weather turns cold. They are offering some well made, finely crafted ciders: Traditional, Tart Cherry, Bourbon & Bitters, Blue Ginger, Blood Orange and Hopped. Come hungry because they are making some tasty hand made food as well. The Savory hand pies are a spectacular compliment to their cider.