Northern Colorado's reputable beer scene is no secret to most. In fact, some of the best hard cider breweries are hardly appreciated. After doing a little research, taste-testing and considering, I decided to create a guide to help my fellow cider lovers find the best hard cider in NoCo. Whether you’re looking for a quick drink or a bartender to take care of you all night, this list has it all.
1. Scrumpy’s Hard Cider and Pub
FoCo’s widest variety of cider can be found at Scrumpy’s Pub. Home to Summit Hard Cider and Branch Out Cider, this locally-owned spot offers made-in-house ciders along with 48 rotating taps. Here, you’ll find everything from beer and cider to wine and mead. Most of the beers are Colorado brewed, and all of the cider is made locally in Fort Collins. Of the Summit Hard Cider choices, you can pick from 15 flavors ranging from fruity to dry. If you’re as indecisive as me, the cider flight might be your best bet.
They also serve appetizers with plenty of gluten-free options, so pull up a chair and get ready for some of the best flavors in Fort Collins. Can't make it up to Foco? Scrumpy's is sold in most locally-owned bars and breweries in northern Colorado. Although it tastes fresher from the source, any Scrumpy's on tap is hard to beat.
2. Branch Out Cider
A crucial part of the Scrumpy's Pub story includes the Branch Out acquisition. In 2016, Branch Out Cider was acquired by Scrumpy's, combining the knowledge of two genius brewing teams. Before the Fort Collins cider authority took over, Branch Out was creating some outstanding apple-infused beverages.
Another reason I love Branch Out is the idea behind their mission and brand. In an effort to reduce excess waste in the Fort Collins community, this operation (now with the help of Scrumpy’s and Summit Hard Cider) harvests undesirable apples and turns them into mouth-watering adult ciders. If you have an apple tree in your backyard, find out how to join the Community Orchard! If you just want a taste for yourself, you can find Branch Out Cider on tap at The Fox and the Crow, Scrumpy’s (of course), and a few other local favorites. Or, stop by Wilbur’s Total Beverage to take some home with you!
3. Climb Hard Cider
Climb is one of Loveland’s hidden gems. The brewery is located just off the Rist Benson Reservoir and parking is never a problem. Come spend a weekend day exploring the tasting room and bottle depot. Whether you prefer dry, sweet, or flavored cider, Climb has something everyone can enjoy. Choose from 10 unique ciders — each with a different taste, but all sharing that same underlying Climb flavor. Check out seasonal events and specials, or look into joining the cycling club.
4. Black Bottle Brewery
I love the atmosphere at Black Bottle. Located next to campus, the younger crowd brings a casual, laid-back vibe. Next to their impressive beer selection, the bottled and canned cider choices may seem slim, but if you’re looking to switch it up, I suggest something from their handcrafted selection. You’ll find ciders that were brewed right here in Fort Collins, nearby in Denver and even a few international options.
5. The Ramskeller
Colorado State University is located in Fort Collins, and it is a wet campus. In part due to the young brewers program sponsored by New Belgium, but also thanks to the university pub. The Ramskeller, also known as The Skeller, underwent revitalization during the student center remodel in 2013-2014. It now lives in the basement, twice as big, with twice as many rotating taps and menu options.
Speaking of New Belgium...Fort Collins is home to the one and only New Belgium Brewery. Best part is, they've recently started brewing a cider series of their own.
Here in Fort Collins, you won’t have a problem tracking down fun spots that serve cider. With so many options, the real trick is finding the best in town. Share your favorite places in the comments below! For location, hours or recommended route check out the map.
