Where to Enjoy Cider Along B.C.’s Coast

To begin: a brief history lesson. The coast of B.C. has long been a hotbed for apple tree growth, thanks to the favourable climate and a desire to avoid scurvy. As the population along the coast began to flourish, so did the desire for alcoholic beverages, which resulted in a proliferation of apple orchards. Today, the B.C. coast is home to many heritage apple varieties that create especially delicious cider. Here are six spots to quench your thirst.

1. Sea Cider Farm + Cider House

The aptly named Sea Cider is tucked away on the Saanich Peninsula, overlooking Haro Strait. With protective forest on one side, and the ocean with its beneficial breezes on the other, their orchard is perfectly situated for growing a variety of cider apples. They’re front and centre in ciders like the apples-only Flagship–Heirloom Series, or the fruit-laced Bramble Bubbly. It’s even given a spirited kick from time spent in Newfoundland “Screech” barrels in Prohibition. For those who like the cider flavour but not the alcohol, there’s the Temperance Series with five options to choose from. Grab a glass and a bite from the kitchen, then find a spot and admire that ocean view.

2. Banditry Cider

Fans of “The Beachcombers” have another great reason to visit Gibsons: Banditry Cider. And if it’s a warm summer day, all the better. The cidery boasts generous grounds with picnic tables, a pond that’s home to resident waterfowl (check their Instagram page for “Duck Content”), fire pits and food truck fare. But the main event is the cider made from 100 percent B.C.-grown apples. The cider menu has something for everyone—from Semi-Dry with nothing but pressed and fermented apples to Cheeky Pash that’s blended with aromatic passionfruit. Word to the wise: the blackberry-spiked Bramble & Bine is a fan-favourite.

3. Salt Spring Wild Cider

Salt Spring Island is a special place. So it’s no surprise that the Island is home to heritage apple trees over 100 years old. Well, maybe not that surprising, since the island was once the province’s primary apple producer. This cidery is located in a rustic setting with a panoramic view of the apple and pear orchards, and indoor and outdoor seating. The adventurous among us can sample flavours like Rhubarb, Saskatoon Berry or Bitter Orange Rosemary, while traditionalists will enjoy classic apple-only flavours in the Dry and Semi-Dry. For more locally produced fare, pair your cider with a bite from the Cider House Kitchen, where local producers shine in dishes ranging from burgers to charcuterie boards.

4. The Bricker Cider Company

This Sechelt-based cidery is the perfect spot to sip and stay awhile. The large grounds are dotted with picnic tables (so snag one) that have views of the surrounding orchards and fields. The Brickers Original is a traditional dry cider, but consider it a jumping-off point. Flavours run the gamut, from the Frambo (raspberry) and Earl Grey, to rotating seasonal offerings like Peaches & Cream and Kir Royale. The season’s fruit dictates what’s in the glass, with more than 20 flavours released every year. If you need a bite to accompany the sunshine in your glass, there’s The Shed with offerings like build-your-own charcuterie, mussels and pizza (try the Apple & Blue Cheese and thank us later).

5. Sunday Cider

With a slogan like “life enhancement through fermentation,” you know the folks at Sunday Cider in Gibsons take their cider seriously—but not too seriously. The flagship Sunday Sesh is slow-fermented (like all Sunday Cider’s offerings) with Champagne yeast and spiked with a dash of juicy citra hops for a crisp, dry result. But the offerings get a little more inventive from there. Like the Sunday Trophop with pineapple juice or the Twice Is Nice that’s fermented with pinot noir and gamay grape skins, resulting in a pink hue. In addition to the cidery, there’s also a picnic area, and a couple of resident food trucks. Sounds like a great way to spend a Sunday—or any day.

6. Merridale Cidery & Distillery

Once a small run-down cidery in Cobble Hill, Merridale is now a thriving destination for cider, spirits, food—even an overnight stay in a Yurt. The charming farmhouse and orchard is home to European cider apple varieties that are grown without pesticides or herbicides. Wondering where to start? We recommend diving in with one of Merridale’s award-winners, like the dry-hopped Mo’moro that’s infused with blood-orange juice, or the barrel-aged Scrumpy. Or, taste summer on your tongue with the seasonal watermelon-spiked Summer Crush. Chase it all down with delicious bites from their kitchen, and if you planned well, head on back to your Yurt.