Portland’s Cider Scene
Hard cider has joined the ranks of beverages made — and obsessed over — in Portland.
While Portland is known for having more breweries than any other city in the world, amazing wines from the nearby Willamette Valley and a host of craft distilleries, the latest beverage trend in town is hard cider.
Cider making draws from techniques typically used in brewing and winemaking.
Since the tart beverage is made from fermented apples, Oregon cider makers have plenty of raw material from the apple-growing regions of the state and neighboring Washington. Cider making draws from techniques typically used in brewing and winemaking, such as using oak barrels to age the brew or adding hops to increase its bitterness, making it a perfect fit for Portland.
Some Portland companies push the traditional boundaries, using gin or whiskey barrels to age some of their products, along with other unorthodox techniques. Others, such as Portland Cider Company, focus on traditional semi-sweet and dry options. Reverend Nat’s Cidery makes traditional dry and off-dry varieties but is also known for non-traditional versions, such as the Hibiscus Hymnal, which uses hibiscus, raspberry and a Czech yeast often found in Pilsner beers.
In addition to these new makers, cider from other Oregon makers such as Wandering Aengus, EZ Orchards and Blue Mountain can be found on tap and in bottles throughout the city. It is common to see several ciders offered alongside numerous craft beers at many of the city’s taprooms and bottle shops, including favorites like Apex and Saraveza, or highlighted at restaurants like St. Honore on Division.
Apple Picking Near Portland
Brother Beer
Beer Bars & Bottle Shops
Most Portland bars, even the most unassuming corner taverns, offer some local suds, but these favorites focus on local and regional beers.
Portland Breweries
Portland, home to more breweries than any other city on earth, has pioneered the craft beer movement since the early 1980s.
Brew ‘N’ View – Movie Theaters That Serve Beer
Portland’s beloved “brew ‘n’ view” movie theaters run the gamut from funky to swanky, serving up all manner of drinks, food and films.