In the heart of Denver’s RiNO neighborhood, Stem Ciders is gearing up for a unique showcase that merges tradition with innovation, titled the Great American Cider Friends. From October 9 to October 12, this event will gather esteemed cider makers from across the nation into one tap room—an indicator of the rising status of cider within the American craft beverage scene. Set against the backdrop of the renowned Great American Beer Festival (GABF), which is taking over downtown with a plethora of activities and tastings, the cider enthusiast community is in for a treat that celebrates this often-overlooked beverage alongside the world of craft beer.
This year’s GABF marks a watershed moment for cider as it receives formal recognition within the festival’s competition lineup. With nearly 10,000 beverages judged annually, the festival has long been known as the pinnacle of craft brewing excellence. The inclusion of cider exemplifies a maturation in the craft beverage industry, acknowledging that cider deserves a spotlight traditionally reserved for beer. Patrick Combs, Stem Ciders’ Director of Liquids, articulated this sentiment perfectly, stating, “We are honored to be celebrating cider’s inclusion into the GABF competition lineup with our cider friends and favorites.” This statement underlines a growing respect and appreciation for cider, not just as an adjunct beverage but as a vital part of the craft movement.
What can attendees expect at the Great American Cider Friends events? Each day has been carefully curated to offer an array of experiences that delight both seasoned cider enthusiasts and newcomers alike. The showcase will kick off with a guided tasting of pommeau, an exquisite blend of apple juice and apple brandy, led by the cider-making minds at Stem Ciders. This exclusive introductory session promises to offer insights into the cider-making process and the flavor profiles that can be achieved.
Continuing the excitement, each subsequent day will offer limited-edition brews such as bourbon barrel-aged ciders and fruit-infused varieties. Moreover, the integration of live music and trivia games adds an extra layer of enjoyment, fostering a sense of community among participants. As patrons sip on unique brew offerings, they can engage in classic pub trivia, providing an opportunity for entertainment and social interaction.
The events surrounding Great American Cider Friends are not only about showcasing ciders—they are rooted in the spirit of camaraderie and the cultivation of community among cider lovers. Shane Sheridan, Head Cider Maker at Stem Ciders, emphasizes that “Cider has long been a key part of the American craft beverage scene,” showcasing the necessity of events like these to advocate for cider’s place in the beverage hierarchy.
Moreover, Stem Ciders is inviting all attendees to be part of this historic week without any entry fee, making it accessible to anyone eager to expand their palate. The thoughtful gesture of offering the first 40 guests daily a free Stem Ciders glass further enhances the welcoming atmosphere of the gathering.
The culmination of the Great American Cider Friends events promises to be memorable, repositioning the festival’s final day as a celebration of cider’s newfound respect and recognition. On October 12, the event will host a GABF afterparty where attendees can enjoy two-for-one ciders, a delightful perk for festival-goers sporting their GABF wristbands.
The Great American Cider Friends at Stem Ciders not only showcases the talent and creativity of cider makers from across the nation but also aligns perfectly with the elevation of cider as a craft beverage. It invites everyone—whether long-standing aficionados or curious newcomers—to join in a week of exploration, learning, and celebration that promises to be both enlightening and enjoyable.
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