Hard cider may feel like a modern fall favorite, but Americans have been raising a glass of it for centuries. In fact, cider was one of the most popular drinks in colonial America, and even Johnny Appleseed’s famous apple trees had a connection to cider making. Long before today’s craft cider boom, apples were being pressed, fermented and enjoyed from orchards across the country. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel far to taste that tradition for yourself. Just a short drive from Folsom, the Apple Hill Growers are pouring an impressive variety of locally made hard ciders. Fall is the perfect time to follow the Hard Cider Trail, meet some of the makers and discover just how many ways there are to enjoy an apple.
Hidden Star Camino – Open year round
Hidden Star Camino pairs craft hard cider with a laid-back, family-friendly setting. Settle into the quaint barn taproom to sample a glass or flight from an impressive lineup of 24 hard cider varieties, then grab a picnic table and take in the views. The onsite bakery and shelves stocked with jarred fruits and sauces add to the farm experience, while Kid’s Town, tucked among the pine trees, gives younger visitors a place to play and explore.
North Canyon Cider Co – Open September – November
For nearly 40 years, this family-owned, solar-powered cider mill has been pressing fresh apple cider as Barsotti Family Juice Company. More recently, the family added hard cider to the mix, with an impressive lineup you can taste at the cider mill on fall weekends. Look for flavors ranging from Heirloom Dry and American Semi-Sweet to Tangerine, Pomegranate and Pineapple Ginger, along with their Original Dry.
Wofford Acres Vineyard – Open year round
This winery doesn’t just boast amazing views and unique wines. You’ll also find some truly delicious hard cider. Their South Fork Apple Cider, made with Arkansas Black, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, and Pippin apples, is available with or without bubbles.
Rainbow Orchards Open September – December 5
While Rainbow Orchards may be best known for its melt-in-your-mouth, made-to-order hot apple cider donuts, there’s another reason to linger. The family also produces hard cider made from apples freshly pressed in its onsite cider mill. Grab a glass, order a warm batch of donuts and put one of Apple Hill’s best pairings to the test, because we’re pretty sure it’s a well-known fact that apple cider donuts taste even better with hard cider.
Delfino Farms Open year round
Delfino Farms has been family owned and operated for more than 60 years and three generations. It is perhaps best known for its famous Walkin’ Pie and other homemade baked goods. Today, the farm is also home to fresh, bright alpine wines and a California-style dry hard cider made from apples grown right on the ranch and barrel-aged in French oak. And if you’re wondering what to have with your cider, the Walkin’ Pie and cider pairing is one not to miss.
High Hill Ranch Open August – December
One of the Apple Hill Growers most popular stops, High Hill Ranch offers plenty for the grown-ups, too. Sip your way through Crisp Apple and Pomegranate Apple hard ciders, along with cider champagne, apple wine and even apple beer. High Hill is especially lively during the heart of apple season, so if you’re visiting in October, a midweek stop is your best bet for a more relaxed experience.
