Whether it’s an ode to summer past, a bit of spice or a tribute to the North Fork, here are some small-batch, capsule ciders to try this harvest season before they are gone.
JALAPEÑO CIDER | Southold Cider, Southold
During the secondary fermentation of this cider, the brewers at Southold Cider decided to add a kick and toss some fresh jalapeños into the batch. All Southold Ciders are made using North Fork-grown apples and carbonated using the champagne method. But the jalapeño cider stands apart from the others for its spicy flair and crisp finish that will keep you warm during the fall. Find it in local craft liquor stores and at southoldcider.com for $20 per 750ml bottle.
FARM DAY | Treiber Farms, Peconic
At the end of July, Treiber Farms released its first summer capsule cider. Made on site with responsibly grown apples, this cider is clean and refreshing with a bit of carbonation and a hint of salinity. You can find a pack of four cans at Bogey’s Bottled Goods in Southold and One Kourt Studio in Greenport for $18.
FROM THE COAST CIDER | Matchbook Distilling Co., Greenport
Made with 100% Newton Pippin apples grown and pressed by the North Fork’s own Briermere Farms, this premiere vintage cider is a first of its kind for Matchbook Distilling Co. This 6% ABV, completely dry and aromatic sparkling apple wine is a tribute to the spirit of the region—$15 per 375 ml bottle.
“WORLDS COLLIDE” CABERNET FRANC CIDER | Poppy & Rose Wine Co., Aquebogue
In a collaboration between Woodside Orchards and Poppy & Rose Wine Co., fresh apple juice was fermented on cabernet franc grape skins to make this beautiful dry cider. The taste encompasses the best of both worlds, with clean apple goodness and a touch of grape tannin. $19.99 per bottle.
SOUND CIDER | Lieb Cellars, Cutchogue
This is the apple cider for wine lovers. In collaboration between Lieb Cellars and Woodside Orchards, only 87 bottles of this refreshing cider were produced this season. Order a bottle online while supplies last or find it at Lieb Cellars in Cutchouge. $30 per 750 ml bottle.
