Avid Cider, located at 550 SW Industrial Way #190 in Bend, Oregon, has carved a niche for itself in the vibrant craft beverage scene of the Pacific Northwest. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, Avid Cider has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors seeking a refreshing taste of hard cider. Founded in 2013, the company emerged from a desire to create ciders that balanced flavor and refreshment, addressing a gap in the market for more diverse and approachable options.
As the second-largest cidery in Oregon, Avid Cider has not only focused on crafting exceptional beverages but also on building a community around its brand. The cidery’s ethos revolves around using locally sourced ingredients from Oregon’s Hood River and Washington’s Yakima Valley, ensuring that each sip reflects the region’s rich agricultural heritage. With various flavors ranging from classic apple to innovative seasonal blends like Apricot and Watermelon Rhubarb, Avid Cider continues to push the boundaries of what hard cider can be.
The Story Behind Avid Cider
Avid Cider was born out of dissatisfaction with the existing cider options on the market. Founders Samantha Roberts and her team recognized that many ciders were either excessively dry or overly sweet, leaving consumers wanting more balance and complexity. This realization led them to embark on a mission to create ciders that would satisfy a broader range of palates while maintaining a commitment to quality and sustainability.
Over the years, Avid has developed a reputation for crafting ciders that are delicious and reflective of their surroundings. The cidery prioritizes using fresh-pressed apples and natural fermentation processes, resulting in ciders that are vibrant and full of character. Their dedication to innovation is evident in their seasonal offerings, which often incorporate unique ingredients and flavor profiles inspired by local produce.
Community Engagement and Events
Avid Cider has always placed significant emphasis on community engagement. The cidery’s taproom has served as a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, offering tastings and events that celebrate the craft beverage culture in Bend. Avid has fostered an environment where people can enjoy great drinks and connect over shared experiences, from live music nights to cider pairing dinners.
Despite recent changes—including the announced closure of their taproom as part of an expansion strategy—Avid Cider remains committed to maintaining its presence in the community. Plans are underway to reopen at a new location in 2024, ensuring that fans will continue to have opportunities to enjoy their favorite ciders and participate in community events.
Source: avidcider.com
The Future of Avid Cider
The future looks bright for Avid Cider as it transitions into this new chapter. With the relocation of its production facility to Redmond, Oregon, the company is poised for growth. This new facility will increase production capacity and allow for greater experimentation with flavors and styles. Avid is exploring various locations for new taprooms throughout Oregon as part of its expansion strategy.
In addition to expanding its physical presence, Avid is investing in its product line. Introducing Seven Peaks Elevated Hard Seltzers reflects the cidery’s commitment to innovation while catering to changing consumer preferences. These seltzers are crafted with apples sourced from the Pacific Northwest and promise a refreshing alternative for those seeking lower-calorie options without sacrificing flavor.
Avid Cider is a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets quality craftsmanship. With its roots firmly planted in Bend’s rich agricultural landscape, this cidery has created delicious beverages and fostered a sense of community among cider enthusiasts. As it embarks on an exciting journey toward expansion and innovation, Avid Cider continues to embody the spirit of adventure that defines Central Oregon.
Avid Cider remains an essential stop on any visit to Bend for anyone looking to explore the world of craft cider or enjoy a refreshing drink with friends. With plans for future growth and an unwavering commitment to quality and community engagement, Avid Cider will remain a cherished part of Oregon’s craft beverage scene for years to come.
Sources: yelp.com, avidcider.com
Header Image Source: avidcider.com
