farms whose crops were destroyed in the frost .
As the sessions neared their end , thoughts of cider tasting got me excited . It was almost time to imbibe , but not before I learned that the best ciders have a unique balance of three distinct flavor profiles : tannins ( which introduce bitterness ), acid , and , of course , sugar . To do this , multiple apple varieties are used , and blends are the way to go . Getting the balance right is a source of great pride for any cider-maker , and I brought that knowledge with me as I headed toward the smiling vendors offering the liquids of their labor .
The vendors sharing their wares at Cider Terra 2023 included : Eden Ciders and Iapetus Wines ( Newport , VT ); Kalché ( Fletcher , VT ); Fable Farm ( Barnard , VT ); Domaine La Garagista and Disciple Cider ( Bethel , VT ); Watson Wheeler Cider ( Shaftsbury , VT ); Windfall Orchards ( Middlebury , VT ); Tin Hat Ciders ( Roxbury , VT ): and Wild Branch Cider ( Craftsbury , VT ). As I sipped the myriad number of offerings , my knowledge base continued to grow . The producers told me about their orchard ’ s terroir , the different methods used to make their spirits , and the stories behind the names and artwork on their labels . I tried a wine made primarily of apples that used grape skins in the fermentation process , resulting in a delicious flavor combination and a beautifully colored beverage - and that ’ s just one example of the innovative techniques used by cider and wine makers to bring forth distinctive and thrilling flavors !
Be sure to check out this year ’ s Cider Terra event in late summer at an entirely new venue . Another day beckons , filled with the pleasures of exploring Vermont ’ s cider offerings and a chance to make new friends . n
CASELLA
Offering waste and recycling collection and so much more !
We all play an important role in advancing sustainability for the world around us . The work we do , the infrastructure we build , and the investments we make help to enable our customers and communities to achieve their recycling goals .
Architecture & Interior Design
Vermont Mountain Modern
802.793.4999 VOLANSKYSTUDIO . COM
RESIDENTIAL CURBSIDE SERVICE ciderterra . com
Scan the QR code to learn more about our services & sustainability initiatives :
DUMPSTER RENTAL
Our team is here for you : 800-CASELLA • casella . com
VTMAG . COM SUMMER 2024 63