A new festival is putting the spotlight on New York’s ciders, which, according to the New York Cider Association, have more active cider producers in the state than any other.
Thirteen artisanal cider makers from the Genesee Valley region will gather for the first New York Cider Festival on September 14 from noon to 3 p.m. at Radio Social, 20 Carlson Road. The event will offer visitors the opportunity to interact with local cider makers, many of whom have been apple growers for generations, and to taste and purchase cider. The day will also include live music, a local food truck, raffle prizes, merchandise and more.
The ciders, made exclusively from New York apples, will feature a range of flavor profiles including sweet, dry, fruity, sour, floral, botanical and hoppy. Cider producers include Apple Barrel Orchards, Blake’s Hard Cider, Blue Barn Cidery, Blue Toad Hard Cider, City Orchard, Donovan Orchard Estates, Embark Craft Ciderworks, Lake Drum Cider, OSB Ciderworks, Steampunk Cider, Sylvan Farm & Cidery, Three Falls Cider and Tree Hugger Hard Cider. Guests must be at least 21 years of age to attend.
Tickets for the New York Cider Festival
There are various ticket options available:
• General Admission ($25): Includes access to the cider makers and tastings, a souvenir tasting glass and a customized NY Cider tote bag.
• VIP Early Access ($40): Includes 11am admission, 10% off NY Cider merchandise, one-year enthusiast membership to the NY Cider Association, and a commemorative VIP wristband.
• Additional cheese pairing sessions ($20 each): Guided cider and cheese pairing experiences with cider maker and cheesemonger Rachel Freier, owner of The Cheese Club. Embark Craft Ciderworks will be featured at 12:30pm and Steampunk Cider will be featured at 2pm.
Purchase tickets and get more information at www.newyorkcider.org. This event is organized by the New York Cider Association and made possible with the support of the Genesee River Valley Market Authority.
Tracy Schuhmacher covers the Rochester dining scene. Notice something opening or closing in your neighborhood? Send tips to [email protected].
