Hard Cider:
What Hard Cider Is
At its simplest, hard cider is fermented apple juice. It’s one of the oldest alcoholic drinks in the world—people have been making it for thousands of years. Unlike “sweet” or non-alcoholic cider (which is basically fresh-pressed apple juice), hard cider goes through fermentation, which turns natural sugars into alcohol.
🍏 How It’s Made
Harvesting & Pressing
Apples are picked and pressed into juice. Cider makers often use a mix of sweet, tart, and bitter apples for balance.
Fermentation
Yeast (sometimes natural, sometimes added) is introduced, which eats the sugars in the juice and produces alcohol plus a bit of fizz.
Aging
The cider is aged for weeks or months, depending on the style. Some are kept light and fresh; others are aged in barrels for richer flavor.
Finishing
Before bottling, the cider might be filtered, carbonated (if a sparkling cider is desired), or flavored with additions like berries, hops, or spices.
🥂 Flavor & Styles
Dry – Crisp, less sweet, more like wine or champagne.
Sweet – Fruit-forward, closer to sparkling juice with a kick.
Spiced – Think cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove (a fall favorite).
Hopped or Fruited – Infused with hops, berries, or other fruits for creative twists.
In short: hard cider is to apples what wine is to grapes. It’s versatile, refreshing, and way more varied than many people realize.
Here are three standout cideries in and around Boston that bring serious flavor, personality, and local flair to the hard cider scene:
1. Downeast Cider House (East Boston) Devon’s favorite!
A homegrown Boston favorite, Downeast started in a college dorm and has since become one of the region’s leading cider producers. Known for its signature unfiltered "Original Blend"—designed to be shaken before drinking—it offers a delightfully cloudy, full-flavored pour. Its East Boston taproom and seasonal pop-up on the harbor pier serve up flights and cans of favorites, like Pumpkin Blend and Cider Donut, often with a scenic touch.
2. High Limb Cider — Plymouth, MA
This modern cidery has quickly become a standout. Founded by Jeremy Quaglia, High Limb crafts innovative, seasonally inspired ciders that have earned serious recognition—landing multiple medals at the New York International Cider Competition, including gold for its “Core” blend High Limb Cider. Their taproom in Plymouth is open to visitors, serving up flights and growlers with a warm, welcoming vibe—and yes, the cider truly lives up to the hype. And while you are there, visit the Mayflower and Plymouth Plantation/Patuxet! This is an extraordinary living history museum. Here is our writer Renee, recently on the Mayflower!
3. Lookout Farm Hard Cider (Natick)
Set on a storied 1650s farm, Lookout offers a full New England experience: apple picking, cider donuts, and a cidery powered by solar energy. Their Farmhouse Blend—balanced with just enough sweetness from local raw honey—is perfect for newcomers; other seasonal creations like Pearadox and First Crush rosé add flair. You can enjoy a flight in their greenhouse taproom or pack a growler to go. Devon says “I love this cozy bar.”