The craft cider revolution is quietly transforming the American beverage landscape, driven by passionate makers who blend age-old techniques with modern creativity. Across the country, small, independent cideries are carving out a unique space in the market, championing local agriculture, sustainability, and bold new flavours. These aren’t just producers of great drinks; they’re storytellers, community builders, and entrepreneurs who are redefining what it means to drink with purpose. In this spotlight, we explore seven standout cideries whose founders are not only crafting exceptional beverages but also sharing their journeys and values through active engagement online, especially on LinkedIn.

“Our inspiration for the name comes from a quote from Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson. He said, ‘I wake up each morning AWESTRUCK!” — Awestruck Ciders

Awestruck Ciders – Sidney, New York

Awestruck Ciders, nestled in Sidney, New York, was founded in 2013 by globe-trotting duo Patti Wilcox and Casey Vitti. Their journeys across various countries exposed them to a myriad of fermented beverages, igniting a passion for crafting unique ciders. This inspiration led them to create a cidery that blends fresh-pressed New York State apples with natural herbs, spices, and a touch of ingenuity.

Over the years, Awestruck has gained recognition for its handcrafted, complex, and unique ciders. Their commitment to quality and innovation has positioned them as a notable player in the craft cider industry. With a focus on creating beverages that evoke a sense of wonder, Awestruck continues to captivate cider enthusiasts across the region.

Check out their website and LinkedIn for more information.

High Limb Cider – Plymouth, Massachusetts

High Limb Cider, located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, was founded by Jeremy Quaglia, a passionate cider maker with a background in fermentation and flavour innovation. The cidery emphasizes using the freshest local apples to create modern craft ciders influenced by traditional techniques.

High Limb’s offerings include their flagship “OG” cider, which celebrates the rich flavours of fall, and the “Noble Series,” paying homage to traditional fermenting and winemaking processes. With a commitment to quality and community, High Limb has become a staple in the Massachusetts cider scene.

Check out their website and LinkedIn for more information.

Potter’s Craft Cider – Free Union, Virginia

Founded in 2011 by long-time friends Tim Edmond and Dan Potter, Potter’s Craft Cider is situated in Free Union, Virginia. The duo left the corporate world to pursue their mutual interest in fermentation, initially aiming to start a farmhouse brewery. However, after a flood disrupted their plans, they turned to cider-making, setting aside sweet cider to ferment.

Potter’s Craft Cider is known for its artisanal approach, producing ciders that highlight the flavours of Virginia-grown apples. Their commitment to quality and community engagement has made them a beloved fixture in the Charlottesville area.

Check out their website and LinkedIn for more information.

Nine Pin Ciderworks – Albany, New York

Nine Pin Ciderworks, based in Albany, New York, was founded by Alejandro del Peral in 2013. Inspired by his background in biology and hydrology, del Peral aimed to create a cider company that supports New York farms and orchards by using 100% fresh-pressed New York apples.

“Our mission is to support local farms by creating exceptional cider crafted from 100% fresh-pressed New York apples, never from concentrate.” — Nine Pin Ciderworks

As New York’s first licensed farm cidery, Nine Pin has become a prominent figure in the state’s craft cider industry. Their commitment to local sourcing and community involvement continues to drive their mission forward.

Check out their website and LinkedIn for more information.

Alchemy Cider Co. – Portland, Oregon

Alchemy Cider Co., based in Portland, Oregon, was founded by Kirk Evans, a seasoned entrepreneur with a background in the beverage, design, and marketing industries. Evans’ passion for cider-making led him to establish Alchemy, a cidery that embraces dark, fantastical, and magical themes.

With a focus on small-batch production and local ingredients, Alchemy Cider Co. aims to create unique ciders that reflect both traditional techniques and modern innovation. The cidery’s offerings are a testament to Evans’ dedication to quality and creativity.

Check out their website and LinkedIn for more information.

Ironbound Hard Cider – Asbury, New Jersey

Ironbound Hard Cider, located in Asbury, New Jersey, was founded by Charles Rosen with a mission to revitalize the local economy through sustainable agriculture and cider production. The cidery focuses on using heritage apple varieties and traditional methods to craft its beverages.

Ironbound is committed to social impact, employing individuals from marginalized communities and promoting environmental stewardship. Rosen’s vision has positioned the cidery as a model for integrating business success with community development.

Check out their website for more information.

Lost Boy Cider – Alexandria, Virginia

Lost Boy Cider, located in Alexandria, Virginia, was founded in 2017 by Tristan Wright. After being diagnosed with Celiac disease, Wright turned to cider as a gluten-free alternative, eventually establishing Northern Virginia’s first cidery since Prohibition.

Lost Boy specializes in producing dry, modern ciders using locally sourced apples. Wright’s dedication to quality and innovation has positioned the cidery as a leader in the region’s craft beverage scene.

Check out their website for more information.

Conclusion

The American craft cider movement is more than a beverage trend—it’s a community-driven revival of agricultural heritage, storytelling, and entrepreneurial spirit. From the resilient roots of Potter’s Craft Cider to the inventive blends of Awestruck and the hyper-local focus of Nine Pin, each cidery featured here reflects a deep connection to place, people, and purpose. What unites them is a shared commitment to quality, sustainability, and the craft itself, along with a savvy embrace of digital platforms like LinkedIn to extend their reach and engage with their audiences.

As this new generation of cider makers continues to innovate, collaborate, and inspire, they’re not just creating exceptional drinks—they’re cultivating a culture. One glass at a time.

To get even more inspiration, check out 7 Small Businesses in NYC Revolutionizing Sustainable Fashion with Zero Waste and 5 Local Boutiques in Montreal Bringing Unique Home Decor Designs to Life.