Cider Summit returned February 8th to Chicago’s Navy Pier for their 11th annual festival. Da Count and I enjoyed a Spooktacular Saturday sampling some creepy ciders and other scary sips!
The event took place in a brand new spot in the Lakeview Terrace room on the 2nd floor, which actually turns out it was the original location. There was only one session (2PM-6PM) just like last year. Even though it was a smaller venue than in past festivals, Cider Summit had plenty of tasty choices to try.
Our first sample was the Amber from Woodchuck Hard Cider. The taste was sweet and appley with a bright golden color.
Next up was Raspberry from Wyder’s Cider. It had a pleasant pink color with a tart raspberry finish. We also found out a fun fact – Woodchuck and Wyder’s are actually a part of the same company! Woodchuck sells better on the East Coast, while Wyders is more popular on the West Coast.
Then we tried the Vander Mill Honeycrisp Cider, which had a pale yellow color, a strong apple scent and bright flavor with a mildly sweet finish. I also had the opportunity to try the Totally Roasted (not pictured) which had a smooth roasted finish and caramelized scent.
Northman Cider Company returned with a limited release on tap cider called Orchard Project. It was very dry, but smooth with a light apple flavor and light golden color.
Sponsor Binny’s Beverage Depot was on hand with the hard spirits. I sampled a maraschino liquor which really tasted like maraschino cherries out of the jar, only with an alcoholic twist. There was also a Japanese Brandy which was very tart and citrusy.
We then strolled on over to the Jack Daniels booth to try their Tennessee Apple and Tennessee Honey Liqueurs. They were both amazing, straight and mixed with ginger beer
There was a big green jug with what I thought would be refreshing water, but turned out to be Ford’s 1010 gin and tonic…whoops! Still great though.
After all the tasty libations, we decided it was time for a snack to absorb some of that alcohol. Taste of Tahini offered varieties of halvah, we had the 3-Flavor sampler plate. It tasted like cookie dough but much better.
From Berlin, Germany was Brlo Apple Cider. It had a strong apple taste, very sweet. Also had a pleasant yellow color.
Last, but certainly not least, was Stormalong’s White Mountain Magic which was very tasty. Rich cinnamon brown color with flavors of cinnamon and maple syrup. A very festive beverage, would be great for the holidays!
So all in all we had a fang-bulous day sampling ciders and other tasty goodies. It was busy but not overly crowded, which was really refreshing. Da Count and I are really looking forward to 2026 to see what Cider Summit Chicago will have in store!
