MERRIDALE CIDERS

Taste the Difference:

Unleashing Orchard Adventures for Your Taste Buds

Welcome to a world where our ciders have more character than a novel and more intrigue than a mystery plot. At Merridale we believe in crafting ciders with a story – a tale that starts with the roots, quite literally.

Roots of Authenticity

Our ciders aren’t just beverages; they’re characters with authenticity, drawing inspiration from the very ground they’re rooted in. We use cider apples, not your regular eating apples. They may look alike, but they’re the Thelma and Louise of the fruit world – two distinct pieces of nature.

International Roots

Back in 1990, when cider apples weren’t strolling the aisles in BC, we took a leap. We shipped root stock from the lands of England, France, and Germany. Why? Because we believe that where apples grow matters as much as how they taste. The Cowichan Valley turned out to be the European twin, sharing the same climatic conditions that give our apples that unique European flair.

Crafting Terroir

Our orchards are more than just rows of trees; they’re canvases where the terroir paints its masterpiece. High in tannins and acids, low in sugar – our cider apples aren’t the sweethearts of the fruit basket, but they create a symphony of texture and intensity on your palate. Craft is an attitude, and it starts with the fruit and the place they call home.

Regenerative Magic

From orchard to glass, we take each step with regenerative love. Harvested, pressed, fermented, and bottled – all under our watchful eyes. Since 2000, no herbicides or pesticides have touched our orchard. We’ve embraced sustainable practices, partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture to ensure our land is a haven for bees and a sanctuary for cover crops like clover and dandelions.

Fermentation Artistry

Our juice is fermented with the patience of a wise elder, without the chemical shortcuts. The Cowichan Valley’s fall and winter lend just the right touch of warmth for a slow, unhurried fermentation. The result? A cider that naturally clears over winter, reminiscent of the original craft cider from centuries past.

Deliciously Gluten-Free

Our craft is pure, fresh, and naturally gluten-free. No additives, no shortcuts. We press, we ferment, and we bottle with the same commitment to quality that defines our character-filled ciders.

Dietary Information

While detailed dietary information for our entire cider range is not currently available, we can provide specific calorie details for some of our popular options. A 12oz serving of Scrumpy contains 218 calories, while Cowichan Dry has 173 calories per 12oz.

Intrigue in Every Sip

Our goal is simple yet ambitious – to create the most delicious and intriguing ciders you’ll ever sip. We want every sip to be a journey, making you smile and dream of the enchanting Cowichan Valley. Here’s to characters in every bottle, curiosity in every flavor, and the ongoing adventure of cider.

Curious to know more?

Dive into our sustainability page to learn about our for profit social enterprise philosophy. Cheers to craft, character, and unforgettable sips!

Learn About Sustainability

This project is supported by the BC Government’s Buy BC Partnership Program; delivered by MNP LLP with funding from the Government of British Columbia.