Craft cider is experiencing a meteoric rise in popularity across Canada, and Ontario is no exception to this trend. As the numbers show, craft cider is one of the fastest-growing beverage trends in the country, and for good reason. Ontario’s craft cider scene is buzzing with innovation, quality, and a deep-rooted passion for producing exceptional beverages. The Savvy Team is thrilled to be a part of this movement, curating delicious assortments of Ontario craft ciders and bringing them to the hands (and fridges!) of cider enthusiasts.
What’s so special about Ontario?
At the heart of Ontario’s award-winning ciders is the humble apple. With 15 different apple varieties cultivated in the province and thousands of acres of apple orchards primarily lining the shores of Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, and Lake Huron, Ontario boasts an ideal climate for apple cultivation. The presence of these massive bodies of water helps to moderate temperatures, and when combined with the region’s cool climate, it creates the perfect conditions for growing delicious apples.
Many of Ontario’s cideries are family-run operations, deeply connected to their roots and the land. What sets them apart is their commitment to growing their own apples, ensuring that the fruit that goes into their ciders is of the highest quality. Just like crafting fine wine, cider production follows an annual harvest, which, interestingly, is still done by hand in many cases. Special equipment is needed to ferment the juice, and this process demands hard work and long hours. However, cider makers are undeniably passionate about what they do, and their dedication shines through in the quality of their products.
Ontario’s craft cider industry is gaining international recognition, with many cideries winning awards for their creations at prestigious competitions around the world. These accolades are a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of Ontario’s cider makers, who continuously push the boundaries of what cider can be.
The Ontario Craft Cider Association
One distinguishing mark that guarantees the authenticity and quality of Ontario craft cider is the “Drink Ontario Apples” logo. Developed by the Ontario Craft Cider Association, this emblem signifies that the cider you’re enjoying is made with 100% Ontario apples. It’s a symbol of pride for both cider producers and consumers alike, highlighting the commitment to supporting local orchards and promoting the exceptional taste of Ontario-grown apples.
In addition to the exceptional apples, what makes Ontario craft cider truly unique is the diversity of flavours and styles available. Cideries across the province experiment with different apple blends, aging techniques, and flavour infusions, resulting in a wide range of ciders to suit every palate. From crisp and refreshing to complex and barrel-aged, Ontario’s craft cider offerings are as diverse as the province’s landscape.
For those looking to embark on a cider tasting journey, Ontario’s cidery scene offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Visitors can tour family-run operations, witness the cider-making process firsthand, and, of course, savour a variety of ciders in picturesque settings.
Ontario Craft Cider: Here to Stay
The surge of craft cider in Ontario is more than just a trend; it’s a reflection of the province’s rich apple-growing heritage, commitment to quality, and the dedication of passionate cider makers. As craft cider continues to captivate taste buds and win awards on the world stage, there’s no doubt that Ontario’s ciders are cool in more ways than one. So, whether you’re a seasoned cider enthusiast or a newcomer to the scene, raise a glass to Ontario craft cider, where cool meets quality in every sip.
Do you love Ontario cider and supporting local businesses?
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