Explore Craft Cideries Along Summerland’s Scenic Drive
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscape between Kelowna and Penticton, Summerland’s Bottleneck Drive is an essential destination for those who appreciate fine beverages. While the area is a paradise for wine enthusiasts, it’s also home to an array of small-batch cideries perfect for those with a love of crisp, refreshing ciders. Here, you’ll find artisanal creations from four standout cideries: Dominion, Nomad, Millionaires’ Row, and Summerland Heritage. Each offers a unique take on cider using the region’s bountiful apple and pear harvests.
The harsh frosts of 2024 took their toll on grapevines and fruit trees alike, but these resilient cideries have emerged stronger, still crafting their brews with locally sourced fruits. Despite challenges such as fire blight and scorching summer heat, these cider makers persist in producing vibrant ciders that celebrate the flavors of the season. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the growing cider culture in this picturesque corner of Summerland.
Dominion Cider Co. Delights with Natural Techniques
On your journey down Bottleneck Drive, make sure to stop by Dominion Cider Co. Founded in 2015, Dominion stands out for its commitment to small-batch, craft cider artistry. The cidery employs a mix of crab, dessert, and heritage apples, embracing low-intervention methods that let nature take the lead. Mike Harris and Alyssa Hollis work together to harness the wild yeasts clinging to the apple skins, creating a range of ciders that are as naturally vibrant as their orchards.
Visitors are welcome to enjoy Dominion’s tasting bar, open during the balmy months from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and are encouraged to bask in the serene setting with a picnic. Among their enticing selection, “Pretty to Think So,” a unique blend of apples and raspberries, offers a dry, tart profile with apple skin and dried plum notes—a true testament to the terroir.
Millionaires’ Row: A Century of Orchard Tradition
Millionaires’ Row Cider Co., located on Dale Meadows Road, marries history with innovation in its cider crafting. Home to apple orchards over a century old, the family-run cidery launched its cider journey in 2016. They stay open from May onwards and invite visitors to bring their lunch to enjoy in the shaded picnic area surrounded by the lush orchard.
This estate-grown cidery prides itself on consistent, high-quality ciders like “Making a Mint”—a refreshing concoction of mint, hibiscus, and lemon. Another highlight is “High and Dry,” a sophisticated blend with floral and spicy notes, a nod to its careful, controlled fermentation process.
Nomad Cider: A Global Perspective
Nomad Cider embodies a world-traveling spirit through their variety of cider styles. Helmed by Mike Petkau and Brad Klammer, this cidery uses natural techniques to embody global cider traditions from England and France to Spain and Quebec. Stop by any day of the week, and on summer weekends, stay for the delicious BBQ offerings while enjoying the stunning views of Giant’s Head Mountain.
The Nomad Estate Keeved Cider, a standout, uses a classic French method to produce a naturally sweet and effervescent cider with deep tannins and a fruity finish. Keeving involves a long, slow fermentation for a rich, nuanced beverage—a must-try for adventurous cider enthusiasts.
Experience Tradition at Summerland Heritage Cider Co.
With over two decades of cider-making craftsmanship, Summerland Heritage Cider Co. is a quintessential stop along Bottleneck Drive. The Vollo family leads this long-established cidery, offering both traditional and modern takes on cider using special European apple varietals. Recent expansions provide an inviting tasting room and covered patio, where guests can indulge in fresh paninis and snack flights.
Their Mango Passionfruit Cider offers a tropical escape, balancing sweetness with bright fruit flavors, while their hopped or wine barrel-aged ciders provide depth and complexity, rounding out an exceptional tasting experience.
For all things related to discovering the best U.S. breweries and their diverse offerings, BreweriesNearMe.us is your go-to guide. Dive into the world of craft beer and cider, support local producers, and savor the warm welcome of American taprooms and cideries. #CraftCiderAdventures #LocalCideries #AmericanBrewTour #CiderTastingRoutes #SummerlandCraftJourney
