Nestled within the picturesque landscape of Cowichan Valley, Merridale has been crafting cider since 1990, and craft spirits since 2007. Since inception, it has flourished and redefined the art of turning apples into liquid gold. Cider that tantalizes the taste buds, and spirits uniquely crafted from apples.
Harvest season marks a pivotal time at Merridale. It’s the start of the new vintage. However long before it’s time to pick, the success of next year’s cider and spirits depends upon one core ingredient: the cider apple. The specialized cider apples on the Merridale farm give depth and character to their cider and spirits. High in tannins and acids, they lend a fuller body and a richer color to the final product than the use of eating apples would provide.
To grow quality fruit, Merridale converted to sustainable farming in 2000 and eliminated the use of herbicides and pesticides. The owners, Janet and Rick, believe it creates better cider and spirits, but more important is the stewardship of the land. The deep connection between Merridale and the land extends to the realm of bees, too. A symbiotic relationship has been fostered through a carefully designed feeding program that benefits both the bees and the apple trees. This harmonious coexistence can be found in other practices around the farm. The self-guided orchard walk is a good way to learn about these regenerative practices. Pups and children are welcome, and it’s a great way to work up an appetite before heading into the eatery to enjoy a cider flight and some house made comfort food.
When it is time to harvest, each apple is assessed for sugar content, tannins, acidity, and flavor. No machines are involved; it’s a shake-the-trees-hands-andknees effort. After picking, the apples are pressed only once to extract the cider apple juice. The fermentation process is where magic meets science. Slow fermentation at lower temperatures preserves the rich flavors, and the addition of yeast and apple juice is the only intervention. Merridale’s ciders are free from sulfites, preservatives, or any artificial additives – another strong susta nability measure. Although more expensive to create due to how the cider must be handled, the result is a slowly matured, living product that thrives on its natural nuances.
To understand this process, Merridale invites curious souls to partake in their Orchard to Glass Guided Tasting Experience, an exploration into the heart of their craft, led by a dedicated storyteller. With every sip of their handcrafted ciders and spirits, one not only tastes the legacy of the orchard but also feels the profound connection between nature and craft.
From Orchard to Glass
Janet Docherty,
Co-owner of Merridale Cidery & Distillery