So you’re visiting the Garden State and want to know where to go to sample some Jersey-made hard cider. Unfortunately, New Jersey’s cider establishments aren’t as prolific as its wineries (50+) or breweries (130+), with a total of just four as of this writing. Oh, and some of them aren’t even called cideries just to make it even more interesting. But what these establishments lack in numbers they more than make up for by each having its own unique vibe and distinctive varietals. And so without further ado, here in alphabetical order are the cider establishments of New Jersey.
Armageddon Brewing Company has the largest selection of on-tap hard ciders which they constantly rotate. Their specialty is semidry to sweet ciders with cool names such as Exile, Resurrection, Cataclysm, and Desolation served up in their extremely dog-friendly tasting room. No food is served but feel free to bring your own or order delivery from one of the many restaurants located nearby. Armageddon also crafts meads as well and right now is the only place on this list located in Southern New Jersey.
Beach Bee Meadery brings the fun, not only with its unique cider flavors such as Earl Grey Lemon, Rosemary Currant and Orange Hibiscus, but also its cheerful, dog-friendly tasting room. Yes, Beach Bee are famous for their meads but their ciders are quite note-worthy as well. You can bring your own food or have it delivered.
Burnt Mills Cider Company is the perfect place for a family picnic with plenty of open green spaces to satisfy your two-legged and four-legged kids. Live music is offered on Thursdays in the warmer months with food trucks popping in on certain days. Dry to semidry as well as hopped ciders are offered and be sure to bring a lawn chair, tent, etc. as outside seating is limited.
Ironbound Farm and Ciderhouse is the one who first re-introduced homegrown cider to New Jersey back in 2015 and prides itself on producing dry ciders made from traditional apple varietals such as the Harrison. Dogs are not allowed inside the stately tasting room but are welcome in the ample outside picnic areas and they are the only New Jersey cidery that serves food. Live music is offered in the summer.
Finally, here are the New Jersey wineries who also make a hard cider (or two):
Renault Winery – Sparkling Cider
Sharrott Winery – Sparkling Cider
Tomasello Winery – Apple Cider, Pineapple Cider, Strawberry Mango Cider