Craft Brew Alliance Enters Cider Market With Square Mile Cider Co

From the pioneer spirit of the Pacific Northwest comes Square Mile Cider Company. The Cider Company launched today, and is introducing two new cider varieties in select markets in Oregon, Washington, and California; The Original is a classic American hard cider; and Spur & Vine is a Northwest version of the classic American hard cider, with the addition of Galaxy hops.

Square Mile Cider Company is based in Portland, Ore., and is inspired by the fortitude and perseverance of the early American settlers who set out on the Oregon Trail in search of a better tomorrow. These pioneers left their old lives behind and chose a new path, relying on hope, pride, and determination. This same pioneer spirit is at the heart of Square Mile Cider Company.

When the settlers arrived in Oregon in the 1850s, they were granted one square mile of land where they could stake their claims and pursue their dreams. They found that the Northwest had fertile soil and a temperate climate creating the ideal landscape for growing fruit trees.

Square Mile Cider Co. picks and hand presses three apple varieties to make their hard cider; Red Delicious, Yellow Delicious, and Johnny Gold. The use of these traditional apple varieties in combination with a lager beer yeast makes a very unique, very easy drinking hard cider.

“We are so lucky to be living in a place of such unbelievable bounty,” said Lorin Gelfand, brand manager of Square Mile Cider Company. “The early Oregon pioneers planted orchards that have been passed down through generations and are still producing fruit today. They inspired us to bring back this classic American beverage that we’re proud to share.”

Square Mile Ciders, The Original and Spur & Vine, are available exclusively in select markets in Oregon, Washington, and California beginning on May 6, 2013. The two varieties will be available at select retail locations in 22-oz. bottles and draught only.

The Original is a classic American hard cider. It’s made from three apple varieties rooted in American culture—Red Delicious, Yellow Delicious, and Johnny Gold—picked and pressed by hand in Oregon. A lager beer yeast was chosen to create a cider that perfectly balances sweet and tart with a light, crisp apple flavor and a clean, refreshing finish. The Original is best served over ice to complement the crisp apple flavor and clean, refreshing finish. 6.7% ABV, Gluten Free