The best hard ciders

The production of craft ciders is thriving again in America, said Andrew Knowlton in Bon Appétit. Once a national staple—“sipped by almost everyone, including children,” because it was considered safer to drink than water—hard cider was hit hard by Prohibition. But the artisanal-food movement has inspired a renaissance. Of the 50 we tasted, here are three of the best.

E.Z. Orchards Salem, Ore. ($13). A mix of nine different apple varieties gives this gently sparkling cider a “beautifully balanced flavor.”

Bellwether Trumansburg, N.Y. ($14). This “bona fide thirst-quencher” gets its flavor from a blend of heirloom Tompkins King and Bald­win apples.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Sign up

Tandem Ciders Sweetheart Suttons Bay, Mich. ($11). “Refreshing, with hints of citrus,” this Michigan cider is a favorite of chef Mario Batali, who has a part-time home nearby.