By Sandi Barrett
Contributing Writer
REGION – In the late 17th century, hard cider was a popular staple across Colonial Massachusetts. The colonists planted acres of apple trees when they settled, making the fruit readily available. Falling out of popular favor, hard cider once again became a sought-after seasonal adult beverage in the 1980s and has since exploded in popularity. The advent of talented craftspeople who create unique flavors in small batches sets the stage for dedicated followers who enjoy a refreshing low-alcohol beverage as an alternative to beer.
Now a year-round staple, craft and commercial canned hard ciders can be found in local package stores, online, and at the cideries. You can easily keep your beverage fridge stocked with your favorite brew.
Downeast Cider House, East Boston
A cozy Adirondack chair facing the East Boston marina with panoramic city views – perfect for enjoying a glass of Downeast Cider’s iconic Original Blend hard cider with friends. The seasonal outdoor bar is equipped with picnic tables, small conversational seating, lawn games, and an outdoor bar. Of course, the main cidery, across the parking lot, is where all the action takes place; but when the weather is gorgeous, the outdoor bar is the place to be.
If you love blueberries, you will love the Blueberry Pie Cider. It is like enjoying a profusion of blueberry sweet and tart pie filling in a glass. Their White Peach is a limited summer 2026 release, part of their Cider House Exclusive Series. It is like sipping on a peach at the peak of ripe perfection.
High Limb Cider Taproom, Plymouth
The High Limb Cider Taproom and Pub is a fun, family friendly spot for dinner and entertainment. The pub grub is excellent with offerings like tater-al-poutine, crispy pickle bites, and spicy edamame for starters with hearty and beautifully crafted entrees rounding out the menu.
Photo/Sandi Barrett
The games in the arcade will keep even the most persnickety teen entertained. There is an entire area in the sports bar dedicated to pool tables where you can watch the game, shoot pool, and enjoy one of High Limb’s delicious ciders.
Their classic flavors like Core and The O.G. are popular options. You can find flavors like Pineapple Upside-down Cake, Daisy Pineapple Jalapenoy, and Watermelon Kelp if you are interested in a beverage adventure.
Jmash Cidery, Richmond
Traversing out to The Berkshires is a relaxing getaway any time of year and one stop frequent visitors go to again and again is Hilltop Orchards, home to Jmash Cidery and Furnace Brook Winery. A quintessential New England farm, updated to reflect a desire to enjoy finely crafted ciders and explore the picturesque countryside.
The taproom offers wine and cider tastings including their version of apfelkorn. Traditionally it is processed as an apple-flavored liquor. However, throughout some regions it is also crafted as an artisanal fortified apple wine. A balanced cider tasting will include their signature Johnny Mash American Cider, Farmhouse Hazy, with unique additions like their Coconut Lime Cider.
Photo/Sandi Barrett
Be sure to grab one (or two) of the fresh cider donuts, perfectly placed as you enter the front door!
Carlson Orchards, Harvard
The Cider Barn Taproom at Carlson Orchards is a fun spot to gather with friends and family. The outdoor patio area, replete with picnic tables and lawn games is an enjoyable way to spend a sunny afternoon. Plan a pick-your-own event featuring seasonal offerings like blueberries, flowers, peaches, and apples, then relax with a beverage and nosh.
The Cider Barn Taproom at Carlson Orchards in Harvard is a cavernous space for tasting their ciders and having a snack in a beautiful farm setting.
The Cider Barn offers a fun assortment of flavors including their flagship cider – Oak Hill Blend. Other flavorful options include the Honey Crisp, Ginger Island, and a Lemonade Shandy.
Sandy Neck Cider, South Dennis
When you are at the Cape and want to avoid the frenetic Saturday beach crowd, Sandy Neck Cidery has a charming little spot to relax and sip Cape Cod-inspired cider.
Their Revolutionary Dry Cider reaches back to the historic roots of Colonial cider and is a special 250th anniversary release. Their classic Semi-Dry joins locally inspired flavors like Plum, Cranberry, and Maple. If you miss visiting them on Saturdays, skip over to Ring Brothers in South Dennis and pick up a variety or two to enjoy with your backyard barbecue.
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