Arresting Flavors Sidebar: Local Faves

Since you can’t buy Tom’s cider just yet, we’ve put together a list of great local options to tickle your tastebuds.

Gowan’s Estate Grown Heirloom Ciders

83 heirlooms sparkle in this family-farmed craft cider, all from Gowan’s heritage orchards of Anderson Valley. The ciders are crisp, flavorful, and fruity. Purchase online (and join the cider club!) at gowansheirloomcider.com.

The Apple Farm Farmhouse Cider

Dry and sparkling, the Farmhouse Cider from The Apple Farm outside of Philo is carefully crafted by Jerzy Skupny, who watches over every step of its production. Constantly experimenting with selected heirloom apple varieties, the cider has a rustic style that captures the essence of apple. Available from the farm stand at The Apple Farm.

Drew Family Cellars Sur La Mer Brut Cider

A light and refreshing dry cider, made like a traditional sparkling wine and containing notes of citrus, green apple, quartz and subtle saline notes (suggests coastal proximity). Good with creamy cheeses, savory crepes, roast chicken or oysters on the half shell. Available at the Drew Tasting Room at The Madrones outside of Philo, Surf Market in Gualala, Harvest Market, and the Elk Store.

Fathers + Daughters Cellars Apple Kobler

A singular dry cider from the orchards at Ferrington Vineyard, tended by the Kobler family, who’ve farmed in Anderson Valley for over 50 years. Made with a mix of Sierra Beauty, Pippin, and Golden Delicious, this cider is available online at fanddcellars.com.

Yamakiri Wines Sin Eater Ciders

Crafted by Winemaker/Cidermaker Alex Crangle, these small batch, unfiltered ciders are fresh, heady, and delicious. They use juice from a variety of apples, all sourced from the biodynamic Filigreen Farm in Anderson Valley. Available on tap at Saucy, the Boonville Hotel, The Buckhorn, The Shed, and Yorkville Market. Also available by the bottle at select restaurants and markets.