Ciders of the Northeast

This article originally appeared in the September/October 2022 issue of Zymurgy Magazine

By Kristen Kuchar

When we imagine cider in the United States, it’s hard not to think of the Northeast. Apples and cider are woven into the region’s history and agriculture.

“This area has a longstanding apple-producing industry and culture,” says Cornell University horticulture graduate David Zakalik, who has extensively researched and worked with apples during his studies.

In fact, cider, more than water, was the most widely consumed drink in Colonial America. In 1629, nine years after European colonists arrived at Plymouth, apple trees were planted in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Making cider was an efficient way to use the apples that were readily available. In some communities in the region, cider was even used to pay taxes and wages.

Access the full article in the September/October 2022 Zymurgy magazine.

This article includes:

• It’s all about the apples
• The rise of an industry
• Weather makes an impact
• Is there a New England-style cider?
• The people behind the craft
• Cider school in session
• Perfect fit for wine & travel enthusiasts