The Gold Standard of Cider: Discover the Secrets of Original Gold

Original Gold is the definition of balance, crafted with Northwest apples and designed to hit that perfect middle ground between dry and sweet. With bright acidity, gentle sweetness, and a clean finish, it’s the kind of cider that keeps you coming back for another sip.

The Gold Standard: Unlocking the Secrets of a Perfectly Balanced Cider?

In the world of craft cider, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and acidity is a delicate dance. Too dry, and the cider can come across as sharp or puckering. Too sweet, and it starts to resemble dessert more than a refreshing beverage. But when everything is in harmony—crisp apple character, gentle acidity, just a touch of sweetness—you get a cider that’s bright, approachable, and endlessly sippable.

This middle ground is where a lot of drinkers want to land, whether they’re new to cider or long-time fans who appreciate nuance. So what exactly makes a cider feel “just right”? Let’s break it down.

The Balance Equation: Sweetness, Where Sweet Meets Crisp

At its core, co-fermentation means fermenting two or more types of fruit together at the same time, in the same tank. For Tree & Vine, we combined fresh-pressed Northwest apple juice and Pinot Meunier grapes harvested from Oregon’s northern Willamette Valley.

Unlike blending, where ciders and wines are combined after fermentation, co-fermentation allows the yeast to interact with all the fruit sugars from the beginning. This creates a deeper integration of flavors, and often a more complex aroma and texture. It’s a little bit cider, a little bit wine—and 100% Northwest.

A Case Study in Balance: Original Gold

If you’re looking for an example, Original Gold is a standout. Formerly known as "Sorta Sweet," this cider was renamed to better reflect what it truly is—a gold-medal-winning flagship that lives in that rare space between dry and sweet. Made with a proprietary blend of Northwest apples, Original Gold is more than a cider; it’s a love song to Oregon’s vibrant craft cider movement by showcasing the bright apple character with a soft touch of sweetness that never overpowers.

Because of its versatility, Original Gold is a dream at the dinner table. It complements a variety of dishes, from spicy Thai takeout to creamy pasta primavera. Here are some favorite pairings:

From cider-infused BBQ to fresh summer salads, our new menu is calling. Tap to check it out!

• Pulled Pork Sandwich – the cider’s sweetness pairs with slow-cooked, shredded pork.

• Beet & Gorgonzola Salad – the bright acidity plays well with sharp cheeses

• Wood-fired pizza – the clean finish refreshes between every bite

• Roast chicken or pork tenderloin – subtle enough not to overpower, but bold enough to hold its own

  So, What Makes a Balanced Cider? 

  When cider is crafted with intention—starting with fresh fruit and thoughtful fermentation—you don’t need to choose between dry and sweet. A balanced cider can be crisp, fruity, and refreshing, without leaning too far in either direction.

  So next time you're choosing a cider, skip the dry or sweet debate. Instead, look for one crafted with structure, flavor, and most importantly, balance. Because when it’s done right, like with Original Gold, it just feels... effortless.