In a unique fusion of tradition and innovation, Stem Ciders in Lafayette, Colorado, is setting the stage for a spectacular celebration of cider from October 9-12. Titled “Great American Cider Friends,” this lively gathering will take place at Stem Cider’s RiNO neighborhood taproom and is perfectly timed to coincide with the famed Great American Beer Festival (GABF) hosted in downtown Denver. As the cider sector garners additional recognition on a national front, this event promises to be an emblematic showcase of what American craft cider has to offer. Anticipation is building as guests brace themselves for a four-day lineup packed with tastings, trivia, games, and live music, not to mention limited-edition cider releases.
This year’s Great American Beer Festival marks a pivotal moment for the cider industry, as cider has been included in the competition section of the festival for the first time in its illustrious history. Celebrated as the largest beer competition globally, the GABF judges nearly 10,000 beverages annually, and now cider has a rightful place among this remarkable array. The integration of cider into GABF not only affirms its significance within the broader craft beverage industry but also illustrates the evolving tastes and preferences of the American public. Patrick Combs, Stem Ciders’ Director of Liquids, expressed the sentiment perfectly, highlighting the importance of this moment not just for cideries but also for all cider enthusiasts gathering to celebrate the craft.
During the Great American Cider Friends event, participants can expect a diverse range of cider experiences, starting from exclusive guided tastings. The event kicks off with a specially curated pommeau tasting featuring head cider maker Shane Sheridan and Combs, inviting attendees to delve into the complexities of this delightful apple beverage fusion that blends apple juice with apple brandy. This guided experience offers cider lovers a deeper understanding and appreciation of the craft.
As the week unfolds, each day introduces a distinct focus. On October 10, event-goers can relish limited-edition bourbon barrel-aged ciders, accompanied by live music—a perfect avenue for networking among fellow cider enthusiasts. For those gravitating towards fruited ciders, Friday’s offerings will not disappoint, maintaining a vibrant atmosphere with another live music jam. The culmination of the event on October 12 is not just a finale but a celebration of camaraderie, featuring a GABF afterparty where attendees sporting GABF wristbands can enjoy two-for-one specials on Stem Ciders.
One of the standout aspects of the Great American Cider Friends event is its commitment to fostering community. The event is free to attend, representing an opportunity for people of all backgrounds and levels of cider experience—from aficionados to newcomers—to engage and learn more about the craft. Each day offers various cider experiences, showcasing everything from traditional apple blends to creative and experimental flavors that push the boundaries of what cider can be.
In a world increasingly driven by craft beverages, events like this highlight not only the diverse palettes of consumers today but also the stories behind each sip. Ciders from well-known institutions such as Eden, 2Towns, Finnriver, and St. Vrain will also be featured, further enhancing the experience as these brands represent the diverse, flavorful, and inventive spirit of American cider-making.
The Great American Cider Friends event is not only a celebration of what has already been achieved within the cider industry but also an outlook on the steady growth and acceptance that craft cider is gaining. As cider’s inclusion in the GABF signals a shift in the beverage landscape, it lays the groundwork for future opportunities to innovate and inspire.
In essence, this event serves as a reminder that cider, often considered an alternative to beer, is carving out its place in American culture with increasing visibility and appreciation. For cider lovers, industry professionals, or even casual observers, the Great American Cider Friends event undoubtedly represents a historic week filled with discovery, joy, and above all, the camaraderie that only great beverages can foster.