October – National Cider Month 
As the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a glass of cider in hand. October is National Cider Month, a time dedicated to honoring the rich history, craftsmanship, and diversity of this beloved beverage. From the colonial orchards of New England to the innovative cider houses of the Pacific Northwest, cider has deep roots in American culture and continues to grow in popularity. Schilling Cider founded National Cider Month to celebrate the apple-centric hard beverage and elevate the cider industry as a whole.

The History of Cider in America
Cider has been a staple in the United States since the early settlers brought apple seeds from Europe. In colonial times, water wasn’t always safe to drink, so fermented cider became the beverage of choice. Orchards flourished, and cider production became a household craft. However, Prohibition in the early 20th century nearly wiped out the industry, as many cider apple trees were cut down and replaced with sweeter varieties for eating.

In recent decades, cider has made a strong comeback, thanks to a renewed interest in craft beverages and local agriculture. Today, American cider makers are experimenting with heirloom apples, wild fermentation, and barrel aging, creating an exciting and diverse cider scene.

How to Celebrate National Cider Month
Whether you’re a seasoned cider aficionado or just beginning to explore this versatile drink, National Cider Month offers plenty of ways to enjoy and appreciate cider:

🍏 Visit a Local Cidery
Many cider houses host special tastings, tours, and events throughout the month. Visiting a cidery allows you to learn about different apple varieties, fermentation techniques, and cider styles firsthand.

🍎 Pair Cider with Seasonal Foods
Cider’s bright acidity and natural sweetness make it an excellent companion to fall dishes. Try pairing a dry cider with roasted pork, a spiced cider with pumpkin soup, or a semi-sweet cider with sharp cheddar cheese.

🍏 Try Different Styles
Cider comes in many forms, from traditional still ciders to effervescent sparkling varieties. There are also fruit-infused ciders, barrel-aged ciders, and even hopped ciders for those who enjoy a hint of bitterness.

🍎 Host a Cider Tasting Party
Gather friends and family for a cider tasting event. Select a variety of ciders—sweet, dry, funky, and everything in between—and take notes on their aromas, flavors, and pairings.

🍏 Make Your Own Cider Cocktails
Experiment with cider-based cocktails like a Cider Old Fashioned, Spiked Hot Cider, or a Cider Mimosa. The possibilities are endless!

🍎 Support Local Apple Growers
Cider wouldn’t exist without apples, so visiting a local orchard to pick your own apples or purchasing from nearby farmers’ markets is a great way to support the industry.

The Future of American Cider
The craft cider movement continues to gain momentum, with more cideries popping up across the country and a growing appreciation for the complexity and versatility of cider. Some cider makers are reviving lost apple varieties, while others are pushing boundaries with new flavors and fermentation techniques.

With National Cider Month shining a spotlight on this timeless beverage, there’s never been a better time to raise a glass and toast to the art of cider making. So, whether you prefer your cider dry and crisp or sweet and spiced, take a moment this October to celebrate America’s favorite fall drink.

Cheers to National Cider Month! 🍏🥂