This series focuses on expression of single orchard ciders.

Fruit
43% Harrison, 21% Roxbury Russet, 16% Ashmead’s Kernel, 14% Smith’s Cider, 6% Domaine.

Orchard Site
Countryside Farm and Nursery - Augusta County, 1260’ elevation. Located in the heart of the Shenandoah valley, Raul and his wife Mary focus most of their energy on feeding the growing cider industry with young trees and top working over existing orchards. What limited quantities of fruit they grow we covet.

Vinification
Harrisons were picked in mid September and sweated for several weeks, concentrating flavor and reducing yield. The remaining fruit was picked in early October and was ground together for an overnight soak and pressed directly to a neutral French oak 500L puncheon. Several weeks later Smith’s cider was pressed, topping the puncheon. The cider sat undisturbed for the entirety of its élevage, racked off its gross/fine lees in late September of 2022. Bottled sparkling via traditional method with disgorgement. No additions of SO2 were made at any stage of the cider.

Notes
As one of the first Grower Series we introduced, it is fun to watch how this cider has evolved over the years. Raul’s Harrisons are some of the finest we buy; rich and concentrated yet with time they offer a confectionary sense of softness. This year we opted to forgo the balancing contribution of White Winter Permian in favor of more acid-driven russets allowing for more primary apple tones in the nose. Although small in percentage, Domaine’s soft tannins are present, creating a tighter pallet than year’s past with considerably more back end structure. In total this cider showcases a riper than usual vintage, offering a more serious and focused profile than year’s past.

81 Cases Produced, Alc. 8.4% by Volume, 500mL

*Available for shipments in Virginia & Washington DC OR pick-up at Oakley Farm. Ship to other states here. Shipments may be delayed based on temperatures.