Cover photo courtesy of Austin Eastciders Facebook page.

Summer in Texas means hot days ahead and what better way to cool off than a nice, chill cider? Even though the state isn’t the most well known when it comes to apple-growing, many cider companies have begun to thrive in Texas as well as locally in Austin. Cider is also a great alternative for those who love beer but are looking for a gluten free option.

AUSTIN EASTCIDERS

One of the most well known cideries in town, Austin Eastciders produces a variety of cider flavors using real cider apples from Europe. Their cans are perfect for summertime sipping with flavors ranging from chili lime watermelon, blood orange, pineapple and more.

Austin Eastciders also boasts a dog and family friendly taproom, The Collaboratory, in central Austin at 979 Springdale Road. For information, visit https://austineastciders.com.

FAIRWEATHER CIDER CO.

With names like Day Drink, Tejano Dreams and Smell the Van, a unique experience is expected when it comes to Fairweather Cider Co. Their ciders include fusions of not only fruit but wine, gin and tea creating an unexpected but pleasant summertime taste.

The Fairweather’s colorful taproom is located in the brewery district of north Austin and includes several ciders available for tasting as well as a karaoke room available for booking. For information, visit https://fairweathercider.com.

TEXAS KEEPER

Traveling just south of Austin to Manchaca, you’ll find a 20-acre ranch which is home to the Texas Keeper cidery. Founded by three friends local to Austin, Texas Keeper is a cider perfect for beer lovers as they have flavors reminiscent of IPAs, hefeweizen and mead. Visit https://texaskeeper.com for information.

ARGUS CIDERY

Founded in 2010, Argus Cider is Texas’ first hard cider and focuses on making ciders on the drier side. Their tasting room is open on weekends with ciders by the flight, glass or bottles to go. Just be sure to try their infamous Apple Bomb cider for a full-bodied explosion of apple taste.

For information on Argus Cidery, visit https://arguscidery.com.