A Toast to the Apple: The Heart of Every Great Cider
October is National Cider Month, and here at Portland Cider Co. we’re raising a glass to the fruit that makes it all possible: the apple. Juicy, beautiful, and endlessly versatile, apples are the foundation of every batch we craft. To celebrate, we’ve harvested some apple facts for you to ponder over your next pint! Did you know that…
Apples are thirst-quenching
They’re about 85% water, which makes them naturally hydrating and buoyant. That’s why an ice-cold glass of Huckleberry Lemonade can be so refreshing!
Apples are ancient
Archaeologists have found evidence that humans have been enjoying apples for more than 8,500 years! The earliest apples were grown in what is now Kazakhstan, and were then carried east by traders on the Silk Road. But North America does have one native variety to call its own: the crabapple!
Washington grows more apples than any other state
In fact, Washington orchards harvest 10–12 billion apples each year. That’s enough to circle the Earth nearly 30 times! We’re lucky to be right next door, sourcing fresh apples that become seasonal favorites, like Pumpkin Spice Cider.
Growing apples is a group effort
It takes the energy from 50 apple tree leaves to produce one apple! So it follows that leafier trees will produce more (and bigger) apples—which means more juice for cider.
Every apple is picked by hand
To prevent bruising, orchard workers carefully pick every single apple, one by one. Usually under the sun on a warm autumn day. Next time you’re enjoying a Proper Pint of Pacific Berry, be sure to raise a glass to your local orchard workers!
Apples are true fast food
No packaging required, no prep needed. Just wash and crunch. We love that simplicity, and it’s why our ciders let apples take the lead, whether in a pint of award-winning Original Gold, or classic True Brut.
This October, celebrate National Cider Month with us the Portland way: visit our taprooms, try a seasonal release, and share your cider moments with us @portlandcider.
Find more juicy apple facts like these at:
https://waapple.org/did-you-know/