Local cideries offer Chester County residents the perfect way to enjoy a delicious drink while supporting community agriculture, write Mike Landers and Robin Shreeves for Philadelphia Magazine.
Since ingredients were often easier to source than those for wine and beer, cider has been a historically popular beverage. More recently, the uptick in craft beer popularity has made cider even more favorable, as consumers enjoy a more diverse range of drinks.
Many Pennsylvania cideries use regional fruit grown nearby. They also often collaborate with nearby farmers, making cider the perfect fall beverage that supports the local community.
Here are two local cideries offering crisp, delicious ciders made with the help of Chester County farms.
Excursion Ciders—Kimberton. Excursion Ciders food and drink menu both make use of ingredients from local farms. Small-batch ciders are made on-site with apples and pears from Weaver’s Orchard. The tasting room also features a small bites menu made with local cheeses and produce. Ingredients come from Seven Stars Farm, Kimberton Hills Dairy, and other local farms.
Dressler Estate—Downingtown. Owned by husband-and-wife duo Brian and Olga Dressler, Dressler Estate offers a wide range of wine-like ciders. Some varietals include champagne yeast for a delicate flavor and light fizz, and the drier “still” cider is made without carbonation. The cidery offers an in-person tasting room open Fridays and Saturdays, and shoppers can also find Dressler ciders at local farm markets.
Read more about local cideries throughout the greater Philadelphia region in Philadelphia Magazine.
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