Fruit
29% Harrison, 14% Ashmead’s Kernel, 12% Wickson, 9% Black Twig, 7% Arkansas Black, 7% Winesap, 7% Esopus Spitzenburg, 6% Golden Russet, 6% assorted varieties, 2% Pomme Gris, 1% Gold Rush

Orchard Sites
Countryside Farm and Nursery - Crimora, Augusta County, Virginia 1260’ elevation
Foggy Ridge Cider Orchard - Dugspur, Carroll County, Virginia 2720’ elevation
Silver Creek Orchard - Tyro, Nelson County, Virginia 1060’ elevation
Dickie Brother’s Orchard - Roseland, Nelson County, Virginia 1050’ elevation

Vinification
Most fruit in this blend was pressed directly to barrel between September and November with later season varieties seeing extended sweating upwards of a month. Some varietals including Harrison and Arkansas Black saw limited maceration before pressing. Upon completing an uninoculated, native primary fermentation, select barrels saw a reinvigoration of their lees by weekly Bâtonnage. Barrels were left undisturbed during the spring and summer until racked off gross/fine lees and blended in the end of July of 2021. Bottled sparkling via traditional method and rested for an additional nine months undisgorged before its release. No additions of SO2 were made at any stage of this wine.

Notes
Now having several vintages of House under our belt, this cider feels like it is truly coming into its own. Our goal all along has been to make a cider representative of our greater region, built on varietals that either originate or have a long standing history of cultivation in Virginia and the greater south east. More so, a focus on varietals that truly grow well in our region, yielding a profile of cider that is reflective of its origin. 2021 also marks the first year we have introduced the use of Black Locust barrels, a tight grain wood that is native to our mountains and kin to Acacia of Europe. Although only composing <10% of the blend, its subtle influence can noticed in both its aroma and pallet. On the nose this year’s house offer a touch more softness while still retaining its hallmark bright, citrusy tones. On the pallet it lends a touch more grip and riper fruit tones than the 2020. Mild maceration depth carry forth with a more herbal lemon yielding some complimenting bitterness.

215 Cases Produced, Alc. 8.4% by Volume, 750ml

Label artwork by Edward Beyer. In 1858, his Album of Virginia illustrated our valley’s famed spring resorts and natural landscapes.

*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.