In the heart of Denver’s RiNO neighborhood, the excitement is brewing as Stem Ciders prepares to host an engaging four-day festival titled Great American Cider Friends, running from October 9 to October 12. This event coincides with the prestigious Great American Beer Festival (GABF), which marks a pivotal moment in the history of craft beverages: cider will now have its moment in the spotlight during the festival’s iconic competition segment. This milestone opens doors not only for cider enthusiasts but also showcases the burst of creativity and passion among cider makers across the United States.
The Great American Cider Friends initiative is poised to attract visitors from all over, bringing together renowned cider producers such as Eden, 2Towns, Finnriver, and St. Vrain, among others. These cideries will not only highlight their unique brews but will also foster a sense of community among craft cider makers and aficionados alike. The event exemplifies a collaborative spirit where the focus is not just on competition, but on camaraderie and shared appreciation for the craft of cider-making.
Patrick Combs, the Director of Liquids at Stem Ciders, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are honored to be celebrating cider’s inclusion into the GABF competition lineup with our cider friends and favorites.” Such remarks underscore the significance of this festival, which serves as a joyful reunion for cider lovers and an opportunity to educate the masses about the delicious versatility of cider.
Attending the Great American Cider Friends festival promises a multifaceted experience. Lovers of craft beverages can anticipate not just tastings of exceptional cider varieties, but also an array of engaging activities. From live music performances to trivia contests, every moment of this festival has been designed to entertain and educate. The festivities kick off on October 9 with a guided tasting of pommeau, an exquisite blend of apple juice and apple brandy, hosted by Stem Ciders’ Head Cider Maker Shane Sheridan and Patrick Combs.
The following days promise an even more extensive exploration of cider, including an evening focused on limited-edition bourbon barrel-aged ciders and an emphasis on fruited ciders with live music continuing to set the ambiance. Saturday will culminate the festival with a lively afterparty, encouraging attendees to revel in the festivities while enjoying two-for-one selections of Stem Ciders for those who flash their GABF wristbands.
Cider, while often overshadowed by beer, has played a historic role in the American craft beverage scene. Its inclusion in the GABF competition epitomizes the recognition of its cultural significance and the growing appreciation for diverse craft beverages. Shane Sheridan reflects on this shift, expressing the honor of competing alongside top craft beverage producers. This acknowledgment not only elevates the profile of cider but also emphasizes the fascinating narratives behind each cider’s creation, igniting curiosity among enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
The Great American Cider Friends festival is free and invites all attendees—from seasoned cider aficionados to those new to the scene—to partake in the array of offerings. Each day is designed to unveil new flavors and styles, encouraging participants to step outside their traditional preferences and embrace innovation in cider. The effort to engage the community and broaden the reach of craft cider is indicative of an industry at the brink of expansion, teeming with possibilities for exploration and enjoyment.
With the debut of the GABF cider competition and the celebration at Stem Ciders, the future of craft cider in America seems bright. The Great American Cider Friends festival represents more than just a series of events; it symbolizes a movement toward recognizing and appreciating cider as a staple within the wider craft beverage landscape. Those who attend will not only taste exceptional ciders but will also witness the unified spirit of craftsmanship and innovation that defines this burgeoning community. As the event unfolds, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, inspiring more people to explore and celebrate the world of craft cider.