Walla Walla’s abundance of apple orchards has created a burgeoning cider scene here in the Valley, and cider lovers can look forward to multiple options for local ciders on their next visit. Crisp and low in ABV, cider can be a refreshing, lighter alternative than wine (or beer), and you get the added bonus of sipping it right where the apples are grown. Come along with us to three local cideries in the Walla Walla Valley!
Freewater Cider Company: Located in Milton-Freewater, Freewater Cider is just a fifteen-minute drive from downtown Walla Walla. This award-winning cidery focuses on small-batch cider, made with fresh, local ingredients. Freewater also produces wine which is available for purchase in their tasting room (co-owner Mike Sharon was the winemaker for the esteemed L’Ecole No. 41 for over 20 years). Cheeses from the Walla Walla Cheese Company are available for purchase should you get hungry. Their patio is the place to be in the summertime; check their website for current hours.
Freewater Cider Company
525 N Elizabeth St.
Milton-Freewater, OR 97862
Blue Mountain Cider Company: Just down the road from Freewater Cider, you’ll find the Blue Mountain Cider Company. Founded in 2003, Blue Mountain is a family business that was started by second-generation apple farmer, Ron Brown. His sons now head up the business, where they also produce wine. This is an ideal stop for someone who has a non-wine-drinker in their group. Snacks (including a custom-made cheese by the Walla Walla Cheese Company) are available for purchase. There’s a great back patio for cider sipping in the warmer months.
Blue Mountain Cider Company
235 E Broadway Ave.
Milton-Freewater, OR 97862
Locust Cider & Brewing: Nestled in the heart of downtown Walla Walla, Locust Cider has been a fantastic addition to the city. The vibe is laid back, but trendy; and their tasting room offers an array of ciders, cider slushies, craft beers, and yummy flatbreads should hunger strike. There’s a game area for the kids, including a ping pong table in the back – making it the perfect stop if you have little ones in tow. Locust Cider is open daily, check their website for updated hours.
Locust Cider &
226 E Main St.
Walla Walla, WA 99362
We hope we’ve inspired you to make a cider stop (or two!) on your next visit to Walla Walla! For the beer lovers out there, there’s also a great brewery guide on our website!
By: Stephanie Forrer
Read more of Stephanie’s Pacific Northwest adventures at www.eatdrinktravelyall.com!