cider tour asheville

Asheville Cider Tours

Apple cider, specifically hard apple cider, is often an overlooked tour option when considering the numerous “adult beverage” tours that are available in and around the Asheville area. We get it, the sheer number of breweries, not to mention some urban wineries and area vineyards, can definitely overshadow some of the more niche markets like cider and/or distilleries. We will get into the distilleries on another post but for this post, we want to focus on cider. Cider Houses in the Asheville area should not be overlooked!

Apples Have History in this Region

Apples have a very established history in the Asheville region of North Carolina. The charming town of Hendersonville, North Carolina, which is just about 30 minutes south of Asheville, is home to the North Carolina Apple Festival . It is also home to an estimated one million apple trees that are scattered throughout the region on various farms. Apples are a big deal in this area and have been for quite some time. The apples are not a result of the cider industry, the cider industry is a result of the apple industry and the long and rich history of the apple industry. This is somewhat of a nuanced issue but it makes a difference, a big difference, on the quality of the ciders when you have an established industry that has had 100+ years to perfect the process of producing quality apples. The area is also blessed with weather, soils, geography, and other factors that help create favorable conditions for growing great apples. In wine terms they would use the word terroir to encapsulate all of the aspects that affect the quality of the vine so you could kind of say that the Hendersonville area has good or favorable terroir for growing apples. It is kind of like Papa John’s and their pizzas when they say “ Better Ingredients. Better Pizza “. This area of North Carolina can make a similar claim about their ciders – “ Better Apples. Better Ciders ” (if the cider industry ends up using this phrase, remember that you heard it here first!).

All Cider is Wine (But Not All Wine is Cider)

This is a fun saying and it is SOMEWHAT true. I often have this discussion with some of my friends who are wine nerds like me and it is always a fun discussion of whether or not it is a true statement. They always play the card that wine is technically supposed to be from grapes so we go back and forth on whether it is a factual statement. Cider and wine also have different ABV levels but….I am getting off topic…Where was I? Oh yes…Cider, however, is a lot like wine whereas both are a fermented fruit. Beer is also a fermented beverage but it is not a fermented fruit making wine and cider more similar to each other than cider and beer. That being the case, it would make perfect sense to include some cideries on an area wine tou r. It would definitely increase the number of options for stops but it would also increase the flavor diversity of your day. And since we are on the topic of how cider and wine are similar, more similar than beer and cider, please allow me to digress for a moment…

Why do people drink ciders like they are drinking a beer? If cider is so much like wine shouldn’t it be enjoyed from fancy stemware like wine? With wines, most of the flavor is experienced through your sense of smell so the stemware/glass is extremely important to your overall experience and enjoyment of the wine. No serious drinker of wine would consider drinking wine from a can or a pilsner glass. It would completely change the flavor of the wine. A can, for example, would destroy the flavor as it would deny your nose what it needs in order to experience the best flavor of the wine. Yet people drink ciders out of cans and/or glasses like they are a drinking a beer. I personally think that your experience would be so much better if the proper style of glass were used in the enjoyment of cider. Okay, I have vetted my thoughts on this matter. We can go back to the article now.

The Cider Industry in Western North Carolina is Booming!

The whole reason I am bringing up the topic of cider houses is because the industry is booming in the Asheville area. We are not talking about just one or two cider houses, there are a lot of them and the number is growing. I would suspect that this number is growing partly because of the first issue I brought up. It is a lot easier to start a business when there is a solid supply of raw materials, in this case, apples. There are also some big players, like Bold Rock, that have setup shop in the area. There are enough cider houses in the region that are close enough together where you could have an Asheville cider tour, much like you have an Asheville wine tour or Asheville beer tour . It’s a thing now!

The Ciders are Good!

I have been eluding to this topic throughout the entire article but it needs it own topic and it needs to be said. The ciders in Western North Carolina are good. Very good! You won’t be disappointed if you visit them and you should really make it a point to either fit them into your schedule if you are visiting or find a day to visit them if you are a local. Make it happen!

Anytime you are going to visit and experience an establishment that serves alcoholic beverages make sure you are enjoying everything responsibly. An easy way to do this is to hire a tour/transportation company like Van in Black to handle the driving for you and your group. We can not only take care of the driving but we can also help suggest an itinerary for you if you want to visit multiple cider houses. We have a large fleet of luxury vehicles, including limousine vans , that can get you there safely and in style. Book your Asheville Cider Tour today!

I am the founder of Van in Black. I also started HD Carolina (the first Carolina themed channel on Roku and Amazon Fire TV) and several other service based companies located in North Carolina. I am also a musician, photographer, wine geek (WSET Level 3 in Wines Certified with merit and Level 1 with the Court of Master Sommeliers), computer nerd, and lover of all things cool. Most importantly, however, I am a husband, father, and very proud (newly minted) grandfather.

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Asheville Cider Tours

Discover the Ultimate Cider Tasting Experience with Gold Star Limousine Service

Looking to embark on an unforgettable cider tasting adventure? Look no further than Gold Star Limousine Service! We are proud to offer the finest Asheville cider tours that will leave you with lasting memories.

Unparalleled Transportation Services by North Star Limousine Services Inc

When it comes to providing top-notch transportation services for cider tours in Asheville, North Star Limousine Services Inc is second to none. Our team of highly professional and experienced chauffeurs will ensure that your journey is not only safe and comfortable, but also luxurious and stylish.

Why Choose Asheville for Your Cider Tour Experience?

Asheville has gained a reputation as a cider lover's paradise, thanks to its vibrant and flourishing cider scene. With numerous local cideries offering a wide range of flavors and styles, Asheville is the perfect destination to indulge in a cider tour experience like no other.

Immerse Yourself in Asheville's Cider Culture

During our Asheville cider tours , you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich and diverse cider culture that the city has to offer. From small, family-run cideries to larger, renowned establishments, you'll get a chance to visit some of the best cider producers in the region.

Sample an array of meticulously crafted ciders, each with its own unique flavor profile and story. Learn about the cider-making process, from apple selection to fermentation, and gain insights into the artistry and techniques behind creating exceptional ciders.

Unravel the Secrets of Asheville's Cider-Making Process

Our Asheville cider tours take you behind the scenes of Asheville's renowned cideries, allowing you to witness the cider-making process firsthand. From orchards bursting with ripe, flavorful apples to the cellar where the magic happens, you'll get an exclusive glimpse into the fascinating world of cider production.

Indulge in Specially Curated Tastings

As part of our tours, you'll be treated to carefully curated tastings that showcase the best ciders Asheville has to offer. Sample a wide range of traditional, heritage, and innovative cider styles, each expertly paired with local artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and other delectable accompaniments.

Whether you prefer crisp and dry varieties or sweeter blends bursting with fruity flavors, our cider tours offer something to satisfy every palate. Experience the harmonious marriage of flavors and aromas that make Asheville's cider scene truly exceptional.

Transportation in Comfort and Style

At Gold Star Limousine Service, we believe that the journey is just as important as the destination. Our fleet of luxurious vehicles ensures that your transportation experience is nothing short of exceptional. Relax in the plush interiors, enjoy the state-of-the-art amenities, and let our chauffeurs take care of all the logistics, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the cider tour experience.

Plan Your Asheville Cider Tour Today

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the vibrant cider scene of Asheville with Gold Star Limousine Service. Contact us today to book your Asheville cider tour and let us create a bespoke experience tailored to your preferences. Cheers to unforgettable cider adventures!

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72 School House Rd. Mills River, NC 28759

MILLS RIVER CIDERY

Bold Rock Mills River Cidery

Store hours, 3108320392331193178, weekly events.

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The 10 Best Cideries in Asheville You Have To Try!

With a thriving set of apple orchards just outside city limits in the mountains around hendersonville, asheville’s cideries have experienced quite a boom., no longer just a niche drink, asheville cideries offer a variety of flavors and combinations of both non-alcoholic and hard ciders., individuals who don’t enjoy the flavor of hops and malt, as well as anyone who cannot consume gluten, which is common in beer, can enjoy a refreshing, gluten-free cider., noble cider and mead, their royalty-and-middle-ages-themed ciders are all incredible, from the basic standard bearer to the cherry hard cider village tart., urban orchard cider company, not only are the ciders delicious enough to make no one miss a beer or wine, but the tasting rooms are also just beautiful and fun., botanist and barrel, their ciders aren’t your average ciders and wines, they have no additives like sulfites and are raw, wild, unfiltered, and made with sustainable, local fruits., bold rock cidery, come by on sunday for their show-stopping bluegrass brunch, where bluegrass music keeps you company while you eat one of the many hearty brunch options., barn door ciderworks, in small-town fletcher, barely southeast of asheville proper, you’ll find barn door ciderworks, a small but mighty operation specializing in barrel-aged, dry ciders., swipe up to read the full post, 15 fun and unique tours in asheville, nc, asheville’s african american community on a hood tour.

Bold Rock Hard Cider – Asheville

In September 2021, Bold Rock Hard Cider opened a brand new taproom in the heart of Downtown Asheville. The innovation focused Bold Rock Asheville taproom allows for an immersive experience, providing a broad range of hard cider, hard lemonade, hard tea, hard seltzers, and even craft beer for both on and off premise enjoyment. Additionally, Bold Rock Asheville features cider cocktails, unique cider varieties crafted on site and craft beer along with cider inspired food from the scratch kitchen and a relaxing taproom environment. It’s all part of the Bold Rock experience. LIVE BOLD! 

Signature Brew : Carolina Crisp | Crisp & refreshing Granny Smith-style cider

Seasonal Favorite : Carolina Draft | Smooth, mellow amber cider crafted from local red apples

Location : 39 N Lexington Ave, Asheville NC

Hours : Mon-Thur 11:30-10, Fri 11:30-11, Sat 10-11, Sun 10-8

Trolley 

• Blue Ridge Wine Tour
• Vino Al Fresco
• The Crest Wine Tour
• Custom Tours

The Trolley Company is a member of the French Broad Vignerons.  The French Broad Vignerons is a non-profit organization that promotes viticulture as a tool for economic development in the region of Western North Carolina.  Our mission is to help develop the viticulture industry through promotion of grape growing, wine/cider/mead making and training in the art of wine evaluation.

If your group is looking for a professional presentation on all things wine, we would recommend author Chuck Blethen,  He is owner of Jewel of the Blue Ridge Vineyard & Walapini Greenhouse in Marshall NC, Member of the North Carolina Muscadine Grape Association, and a Board Member & Vice President of Public Relations of the French Broad Vignerons. He has twice earned the Distinguished Toastmaster Award, once in Arizona and once in North Carolina. Chuck has presented 2 TED Talks. He has visited hundreds of wineries on seven continents over the last 40 years, and has traveled many times to Australia to work with the winemakers in Hunter Valley. He has served as a consultant to Fortune 500 corporate executives and their spouses on wine etiquette and entertaining with wine. He has traveled around the world as an enrichment lecturer for many cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, B&O, and Princess. He has authored several books including “The Wine Etiquette Guide” published in 2006;  “Entertaining with Wine” published June 2019; The World's Largest Collection of Country WIne Recipes” published in 2022; and “How I Tamed the Wild Muscadines of Madison County" to be published in February of 2024 by Amazon.   If you are interested in having a presentation along with your wine tasting tour, please contact The Trolley Company at:  [email protected]

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​                     

   The Blue Ridge Wine Tour

   The The Blue Ridge Wine Tour takes you to two delightful

   wineries in the heart of apple country near Asheville. 

   The  first winery features a casual country style 

   tasting room, the second offers a hint of sophistication .

   This tour leaves every Saturday from

   Westgate  Shopping Center in Asheville

   (Next to Earthfare) at 10:30AM.  and The Cascades

   Mountain Resort in Hendersonville at 11:15.

   Wonderful food trucks are available.  Your $69.00 per             person includes the fascinating history of wine in    North Carolina and all transportation.  Guests can 

   purchase wine samples, cheese boards or a lovely glass 

   of wine of their choice.      We arrive back in Asheville at 3:30PM.  ​   The tour starts Saturday, May 4th and will run until    Saturday, October 26th.  Buy your tickets now!

   Extra Bonus:  In September and October after    our second winery we will be  ​   stopping by an Apple Farm Stand where the harvest    is fully underway.  85% of all the apples grown in NC    are grown in the vicinity of the wineries.  Apple    donuts, apple fritters, apple turnovers, apple...     

   Private wine tours are available     anytime.  For information, call 828.606.8606 or ​   email:  [email protected]

    ​ ​​  Vino Al Fresco Tour

   Three boutique wineries nestled in North Carolina Horse

    Country await you.  Three wineries, three styles, and the

    ambiance of three different tasting rooms.  Award 

    winning wines are poured at each location and often the

    winemakers will be available to talk to you about their

    wines. All tasting fees are included. This  Tour is a charter      tour that is open to 8  or more persons. Reservations for           wine tours can be made by contacting The Trolley                  Company. ​                         [email protected]

    The Crest Wine Tour

   Private charter tours of 6 or more persons to two or               three wineries are also available to the    American Vitacultural Area, Crest of the Blue Ridge.               Call or email for information and reservation.

​      

​     Cider Tour 

    Cideries have opened in the Apple Country capital of              North Carolina.   85% of all the apples grown in NC are          grown withing 25 miles of Asheville.  Come and taste the        wonderful ales that three of those cideries are producing.      Call us for more information.

            For information:  [email protected],                                                 828.606.8606

est. 2014 .

   Important Fleet Transportation Information:    All of our vehicles  meet the     legal standards for vehicles used for commercial transportation in NC and           SC.  Every vehicle has a "For Hire" tag and carries commercial insurance             to insure  your safety.   There are some transportation providers in NC and 

    SC that   are renting vans from agencies  such as Hertz and Avis and

    misrepresenting their legality.  These vehicles do not carry the required

   insurance or  licensure for commercial transportation. 

​  

What is this?   Take our wine tour and find out.   

​ ​ ​ Wine  tours & Cider Tours

The organizer of a wonderful group of ladies who took our winery tour for a "Wives and Moms Weekend Away" wrote the following lovely note:  

"Thank you again for allowing us to use your services this past weekend. The weather was perfect, the locations we visited were perfect, the trolley was perfect!!!  It was a much needed getaway and your company's accommodations made everything that more enjoyable.  Thank you for making everything seem effortless so we could enjoy our time visiting the Asheville area. Best of luck and success with your business - you all are so kind!" Susan

Our 9th Year Offering Quality Wine Tours

Important Fleet Transportation Information Below

The Trolley Company

is proud to offer wine tours in the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina.

We offer 3 different wine

tours -- each one visits local boutique wineries who proudly serve their selection of award winning wines.

We are your designated driver for a beautiful day.

             One of the beautiful vineyards in the French Broad River area.

​ ​*Breaking News:  Our area has now been designated an American Viticultural Area ,

"The Crest of the Blue Ridge."   

  Note:  All of our tours are available year      round for private groups and all private tours can be customized

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​    

The Travel Channel has named the             Asheville region one of the

   Top 10 New Places for Wine Lovers.  

WNC Magazine Showcases the Vineyards of Western North Carolina

      Learn more about wine, cheeses and our tour in the Mountain Xpress.

   Charter and Specialty Tours

    Charter Winery Tours for Hotels, Meeting Planners      Groups, Individuals--Custom designed tours to selected     regional wineries created to conform to time and      passenger needs.  Prices are based on time, the     number of wineries, and the amenities provided.     Tours may feature cheese service, lunch or     appetizers, and all tasting room fees.  Limousine service     can also be provided.  Tours will depart and return to      locations requested. For additional information on our     wine tours:  [email protected],  828.606.8606

          Bachelorette Party Tours

    Available directly to Brides, Bridesmaids or through                   wedding planners and hotels.  The Bride or a member of     her bridal party will specify which wineries  she      would like to visit.  Timing of the tour is based on     the needs of the bridal party and the tour may finish     at a restaurant of your choice.  These tours include                   door to door transportation, tasting room fees and can     be customized to include a memento glass, food and     bridal party gifts.  Party size may range from 5 to 20.     For additional information on our wine tours:  

     info@thetrolleycompany, 828.606.8606

The Original and Premier Wine Tour Company of Western North Carolina

• Our Story/Our Fleet
• Fun Fabulous Events
• Historic Hendersonville Tour
• Wedding Bells
• Quinceañera
• Bachelorette/Bachelor Party
• Explore Asheville

Copyright 2013. The Trolley Company. All rights reserved.

New West Asheville tasting festival added; What to know about more WNC food festivals

ASHEVILLE - Premium beverages and artisanal dishes are the center of several upcoming food and beverage festivals.

In June, the revamped Carolina CiderFest will host a block party-style tasting festival in the South Slope brewing district.

In July, Heritage Fire Tour, a national touring food festival makes its third consecutive return to the Asheville area with more than a dozen local and regional chefs competing for the best dish prepared over a live fire.

In August, Bite Me debuts as a multi-day communitywide food culture featuring tasting events, cooking competitions, industry panel discussions, parties and more.

Then, the recently announced Westival will premiere in September with a host of neighborhood food businesses uniting for a charitable cause.

Get a taste of Asheville's dining and drink scene ― add these events to the social calendar.:

This new tasting festival celebrating West Asheville food and community, is slated for 4-8 p.m. Sept. 28 at Archetype Brewing, 265 Haywood Road. More than 10 West Asheville-based food businesses will serve samples with music by a DJ, a raffle, information tables and activities planned.

Asheville Poverty Initiative established the Westival fundraiser to support the nonprofit’s ongoing work to promote economic justice, provide poverty education, and address hunger, housing and poverty issues through its Realities of Poverty Education program and other outreach services. API’s programs and initiatives are designed to dismantle stereotypes, reduce fear and empower hope by connecting and sharing the stories of community members across socio-economic differences.

API's 12 Baskets Café at 610 Haywood Road brings together people from all walks of life over prepared meals. It provides groceries and pantry items to those in need with reportedly more than 2,000 pounds of food rescued and distributed weekly to more than 500 patrons.

Westival’s participating businesses include Botiwalla, Food Experience, Gan Shan, Jargon, Pizza Mind, Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack, Taco Billy, Sunny Point Café, The Hop Handcrafted Ice Cream, The West End and West Village Marketplace.

Westival tickets are $35, including admission and unlimited tastings. A $55 ticket includes a T-shirt. For more, visit ashevillepovertyinitiative.org/westival .

Burial Beer's Anno XI

Burial Beer Co.'s Anno XI anniversary live music concert and beer festival will begin at Noon on June 15 at Burial Forestry Camp, 10 Shady Oak Drive. Several music acts will perform on the outdoor stage at the all-ages event. General admission tickets: $60. VIP tickets: $115.17. Beer, food and other treats will be sold à la carte. Also, look out for announcements for Burial's annual beer-tasting festival, Burnpile, in October. For more, visit annoxburial.com .

Carolina CiderFest

Presented by Shay & Company and the North Carolina Cider Association, Carolina CiderFest will be 12:30-4 p.m. June 22 in the streets of Asheville’s South Slope brewing district. The age-21-and-older event will offer samples of hard ciders, mead, apple wine and seltzers by more than 20 local and regional producers and served alongside artisanal food bites. General admission: $45. VIP tickets: $85. The Carolina CiderFest Pre-Party will be 6-9 p.m. June 21 at Noble Cider, 356 New Leicester Highway. The Carolina CiderFest After Party is 4-8 p.m. June 22 at Urban Orchard, 24 Buxton Ave. For more, visit carolinaciderfest.com .

Heritage Fire Tour

On July 14, more than a dozen local and regional chefs will compete in Heritage Fire Tour: Asheville, a national touring food festival making its third consecutive return to the area. For ages 21 and up, it will be hosted at Horse Shoe Farm, 155 Horse Shoe Farm Drive in Hendersonville. Participating chefs and restaurants will provide samples of dishes prepared over a live fire followed by the audience voting for their favorite bite of the day and the naming of the event's "Heritage Hero" winner. General admission tickets: $125. VIP tickets: $175. For more, visit heritagefiretour.com/tour-dates/asheville-nc .

Urban Garden Tour & Tasting

The Urban Garden Tour & Tasting with Bountiful Cities will return from 1-6 p.m. July 14. The all-ages self-guided tour invites guests to explore 10 Asheville urban gardens to sample chef-made savory and sweet dishes and local beverages using seasonal produce. The event will include educational activities, raffles and demonstrations. Garden tour registration is free but tickets are required to sample food and beverages. Early bird tickets: $40. The after-party is 6 p.m. at The Odd, 045 Haywood Road. Ticketholders receive a free drink and snack. For details, visit bountifulcities.org .

From Aug. 14-18, the Bite Me food culture festival will present events in various locations across the cities, including indoor and outdoor restaurants and event venues with a communitywide picnic at a city park. Presented by JD Ellison & Company communications agency and local food, beverage and media professionals, Bite Me will feature local and national special guests, including James Beard Award-nominated chefs, celebrating foodways and those who narrate its stories. Festival passes range from $79-149. For more, visit bitemeavl.com .

AVL Food Series

AVL Food Series kicked off in March and will continue with more food and beverage-centric events throughout the year, presented by Shay & Co. and Devil's Foot Beverage Co. and hosted at The Mule, 131 Sweeten Creek Road. On June 13, James Beard Award-nominated restaurateur and chef Sam Etheridge will prepare a multi-course dinner with wine pairings by Metro Wines. On July 27, Tacotopia Food Fest will feature various local vendors' tacos for sampling. On Aug. 22, North Carolinian restaurateurs and chefs Sera Cuni, of Cafe Root Cellar, and Chef Tie Whittaker, of Buttermilk Boutique, will collaborate for a dining experience. Later, the AVL Food Series will host food festivals celebrating pizza, seafood, barbecue and chili. For more, visit shaybrownevents.com/avl-food-series .

Stories you may have missed:

• Equal Plates Project opens new kitchen, addresses food insecurity in Asheville
• Mount Mitchell State Park's restaurant reopened by Burnsville couple; What's on the menu?
• Asheville Food Bites: Chocolate contest, downtown bowling, supper club dining, more
• Local sustainable roaster opens first coffee shop in West Asheville

Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram @PrincessOfPage. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times .

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Call (828) 683-2525 for Assistance

5 Must-Try Cideries in Asheville NC

Wine will always have its place and reputation. But as the spread of microbreweries attests (Asheville easily has more than 20), wine is not for everyone. Well, beer only hits the spot for some; others often seek the fruit of wine as well as the oomph of beer. For these people (many of whom are just discovering they are these people ), hard cider hits the spot.

This growing trend has found its place in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Several cider houses are an easy drive from Wildberry Lodge and could make for a great day trip away from our cozy bed and breakfast should you choose to leave.

Taprooms and Warehouses

The cider houses here offer variety—a variety of environments as well as flavors. Choose your cider by the flavors or the atmosphere. Or the entertainment or food. You can enjoy your flights, pints, growlers, glasses, or jars with a warehouse vibe, in a production facility, or in a lounge-like setting. Go for Southern goodies or sweets and snacks. Go for poetry, dancing, or local bands.

And return to Wildberry for some downtime before good night’s sleep and a great morning’s breakfast.

Area Cider Bars

• Urban Orchard Cider Co . has two locations in the city, West and South Slope. Their exotic blends include coffee, habanero, or pineapple with lavender aromatics. They have a food menu to make more testing easier. Also, check their calendar of events for musical guests, dance parties, and food spectaculars. They really want you to stay awhile and enjoy the vibe.
• Noble Hard Cider is Asheville’s first hard cider company. It offers a full range of Traditional and New American ciders and meads. So is Figgy Pudding, Spiced fig cider with brandy, traditional or New American?
• Bold Rock Hard Cider in Mills River offers award-winning ciders in several fruity flavors. Enjoy a tour and see the production floor and bottling line. Add a side of barbecue and other southern fixins from the Bold food truck to your cider-savoring experience.
• Black Mountain Cider & Mead : Here they believe “cider needn’t taste like artificially-flavored apple candy. … Real cider is a pure, yet complex and palatable delight.” Additionally, they are experts on mead. Mead is wine fermented from honey, sometimes with additions of fruit and herbs. You’ll find a good variety of both here. This is one of the few places in the area likely to celebrate with great joy and revelry World Mead Day in August.
• Treerock Cider House : Located in Upper Biltmore Village, is a taproom offering local and global ciders and meads with ambiance both indoors and outdoors.

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• On Tap at South Slope
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Contact & FAQs

(828) 505-7243 [email protected].

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Urban Orchard Cider Company - South Slope (Downtown) Tasting room, Production Hub, and Headquarters 24 Buxton Avenue, Asheville, NC  28801

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Urban orchard cider taproom and headquarters, south slope location (downtown) (828) 505-7243.

The South Slope location is the main headquarters for Urban Orchard Cider Co. production and offers a comfortable and unique educational atmosphere for its customers to enjoy one of Asheville's quality craft beverages. The taproom is also available for your next corporate or private event. Inquire via our contact us page.

Monday - Thursday:  2pm - 9pm

Customer Appreciation Night, Every Tuesday!

Tango Tuesday! Every Tuesday Lessons and Social 6pm-9:30pm

Trivia! Every Wednesday starting @ 6:30pm

Latin Night Every Thursday @ 8:30-12:30am!

Friday:  2pm - 10pm

Every 1st and 3rd Friday CiderCelts Live!

Celtic and Traditional Old-Time Music @ 6-8pm

Saturday:  Noon - 10pm

DJ Mtn Vibez - Latin Dance @ 9pm Every Second Saturday

Sunday: 1 - 8pm

Click below to head to our Facebook page and more details on events!

https://www.facebook.com/UrbanOrchardCiderCo

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Can I take Urban Orchard Cider home with me?

A: Absolutely! Urban Orchard Cider Co. is now canning all of our flagship products and select seasonals.  They come in 4 packs of 16 ounce cans or 12oz cans, depending on the cider.

We continue to offer 32oz growlers and Twistee Crowlers to-go from the tasting room. Pricing and availability varies based on the rarity and cost involved in production. Your friendly U.O. server can help decide which style is perfect for you and let you know which are currently available. Growlers have a $5 deposit that is 100% refundable or exchangeable during your next purchase. We do not fill growlers from other businesses or personal containers. We are responsible for very specific labeling requirements and proper sanitation. Offering our growlers satisfies all governmental regulations and allows you to purchase our cider to-go in a timely manner. We appreciate your understanding and hope that you appreciate our dedication to providing our customers with the highest quality products with safety as a priority. Feel free to bring in those forgotten/saved Urban Orchard Cider Co. growlers in for a refill or full refund anytime.

Q: Are furry friends welcome in the tasting room?

A: Urban Orchard Cider Co. loves the furry sidekicks!  Please be respectful of the not so furry visitors as well.

Well behaved dogs are allowed inside our South Slope taproom since we do not have a kitchen.  Please keep them off the furniture!

Q: Where else can we drink Urban Orchard Ciders?

A: Great question! There are quiet a few bars/restaurants/breweries that offer our delicious craft ciders.

For the most current list of U.O. customers, follow this link: https://www.urbanorchardcider.com/find-urban-orchard-cider/

If you would like to see our craft ciders at your favorite watering hole, we recommend asking for our products there and hopefully they will do the rest. The squeaky wheel gets greased...

Q: Do you offer tours?

A: Yes and no... There are special days that Urban Orchard Cider Co. conducts tours, such as Customer Appreciation Day. Follow the Urban Orchard Cider Co. Facebook page to get special tour dates. For those looking to schedule a tour, Asheville Brewery Tours is currently the only other option and they will be happy to set something up for you.

Q: How do we host a private event at Urban Orchard Cider Co.?

A: For special events and/or to reserve the cider bar for your occasion, email [email protected] . Urban Orchard Cider Co. has hosted everything from wedding rehearsal dinners to large business meetings and hope to work with you very soon. The cidery is a fun and different alternative to the boring ol’ board room/meeting space. Invite your crew and let us do the rest.

Q: Can I order a keg as a private customer?

A: Heck yeah you can! Urban Orchard Cider Co. can accommodate your craft cider needs in either 1/2 barrels (15.5 gallons) or 1/6 barrels (5.15 gallons) in most current styles offered. Deposits (cash/check) are required and at least one week notice is preferable. Flagship ciders are a safe bet, but for the specialty offerings, please contact us as soon as possible to check available options. There are two routes you can take when placing an order: 1) Email [email protected] 2) Call or stop in the cidery tasting room to place an order.

Q: How long has Urban Orchard Cider Co. been around?

A: Urban Orchard Cider Co. officially opened on October 30, 2013. Yep, that is Halloween Eve. For this reason, we celebrate our anniversary on or close to Halloween every year with a huge costume party. There is always free entry, entertainment and the ever-famous “Fire Flight”! The “Fire Flight” consists of six, five ounce pours of chili infused ciders from the Urban Orchard Cider Chili Series. Everything from a hint of spice with jalapeño, to a blazing heat from the world’s spiciest chili, the Scorpion pepper. Asheville’s best Halloween celebration for sure.

Q: What types of apples do you use?

A: Urban Orchard Cider Co. sources all apples from the nearby Hendersonville, NC. The blend is a balanced variety of sweet/dessert-style apples and those bitter/sharp apples that you taste in the drier styles of our ciders. All ciders that we make are from the same blend. We do this intentionally to showcase the vast difference that our yeast selection makes in the final product.

Q: Do you use high-fructose to sweeten like some other cider companies?

A: No way, no how, never. You will notice that our craft ciders are only as sweet as the juice from a pressed apple can be. This is simply because we begin with fresh-pressed apple juice and back-sweeten with the same. That said, Urban Orchard Cider Co. offers a selection of craft ciders that go as far as Bone Dry, where very little to zero back sweetening is needed, to Semi-Sweet, where we may add a dash of cane sugar to brighten up the flavor.  Urban Orchard never uses artificial flavors, colors, or aromas, or high fructose corn syrup.   A final product, whether it be in food or beverage, is only as good as the ingredients you begin with. Western North Carolina is fortunate with the local ingredients that are available and are what drive our seasonal craft cider styles.

Q: Where do I direct my media questions/requests?

A: Direct all media needs to [email protected]

Contact Urban Orchard Cider Co.

Urban Orchard Cider Company Headquarters, Taproom & Distribution 24 Buxton Ave, Asheville NC 28801 (828) 505-7243 (South Slope)

Website by Web Symphonies

Hendersonville Hard Cider Tour

Plan your summer festival fun in the nc mountains.

Since the Hendersonville area is known nationally as " Apple Country ", it's only natural that it's becoming one of the top places for craft hard cider. In fact, it's the 7th largest apple-producing county in the country! Visit two cideries that offer very different flavors and "orchard-to-bottle" experiences. Visit the cideries year-round, located a short drive short from Asheville. Find several wineries nearby also. Cider, Wine, and Dine Weekend: April 21-23, 2023 Visit the Hendersonville area for 50+ events celebrating food and drink! Wineries and cideries partner with other outdoor venues for a signature three-day event featuring tours, tastings, food trucks, live music, wine releases, and more. Set amidst the backdrop of apple blossom season in this Blue Ridge Mountain town. 

Appalachian Ridge Artisan Ciders  (749 Chestnut Gap Road, Hendersonville) are our top pick for their passion and old-world approach to cider making. Their converted historic two-story barn is surrounded by an orchard with 14 varieties of French apple trees (both photos above). Learn about their Normandy-style cider making. All of their apples are grown, pressed and bottled on site. The big outdoor deck overlooks the orchards that include apple trees recently transported from France. Try their Brandy and Pommeau too. Take home six ciders only available at their location. Their small-batch ciders are not sold elsewhere, so stock up! Live music on weekends. Bring a picnic. Bike or hike through the orchards (loaner bikes available). Also visit their nearby winery, St Paul's. Coffee shop downstairs.

Bold Rock Hard Cider (72 School House Road, Mills River) is located between Asheville and Hendersonville - photo at top. In just a few years, it has become the largest craft cidery in the United States. Its rural setting has plenty of room with an impressive taproom, daily tours of the production floor, garden picnic area, outdoor music venue, and an on-site food truck that serves barbecue and Southern fare. Sample eight seasonal ciders including the Rosé, Pear, Peach, IPA, and Carolina Apple. They have special happenings every night of the week, including live music Friday-Sunday. Hours vary seasonally. It's 20 minutes from downtown Asheville.

Hendersonville's Cheers Trail Passport Earn cool swag with a Cheers! Trail Passport, which guides you to 23 tasting experiences at breweries, wineries, cideries, and a meadery along the Hendersonville Cheers! Trail. The trail is the only one in North Carolina to feature beer, wine, cider, and mead. Once your passport is stamped at 12 venues, it can be redeemed for Cheers! Trail merchandise at the Hendersonville Visitor Center. The passport, which makes a neat gift, is just $10 and may be purchased online or at the Visitor Center, 201 S. Main St.

Visit six award-winning wineries on a 10-mile scenic drive just east of Hendersonville in apple country. Each has both indoor and outdoor spaces with beautiful views, live music, and more.

Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend

Visit the Hendersonville area for 50+ events celebrating food and drink! Wineries and cideries partner with other outdoor venues for a signature three-day event featuring tours, tastings, food trucks, live music, wine releases, and more. Set amidst the backdrop of apple blossom season in this Blue Ridge Mountain town.

Hendersonville Cheers Trail

Visit and taste at 23 different wineries, cideries, breweries and even a meadery in Hendersonville’s downtown and nearby scenic countryside. See all the stops on this self-guided tasting experience. Download a map. 

Hendersonville

The largest downtown in western North Carolina outside of Asheville is filled with historic buildings and updated streetscapes with flowers and art. Find many spots for outdoor dining and a big variety of quality shops and galleries along a six-block stretch of Main Street. Don't miss two street festivals, the Garden Jubilee and the huge NC Apple Festival.

Apple Orchards : See our favorite stops in late summer and fall to get fresh apples nearby.

• Western NC Air Museum, Hendersonville
• Asheville Breweries & Cideries
• Top Wineries Near Asheville
• North Carolina Apple Festival, Hendersonville
• Flat Rock Village

Check this out!

Jump Off Rock, Hendersonville

Sierra Nevada Brewery, Mills River…

Tryon Foothills Wine Country

Thinking of relocating.

Explore moving, retirement and real estate options in Asheville and Western North Carolina

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Asheville craft beer journey.

Known as “Beer City USA” for the longest time, Asheville, NC, boasts a thriving craft beer scene just waiting to be explored. Nestled amongst the Blue Ridge Mountains, this small, but vibrant city is home to over 40 breweries (and counting). Come along with City Brew Tours Asheville—your craft beer journey awaits!

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Experience some of the best local craft beer with us on a tour through Asheville’s top breweries! Enjoy exclusive access to breweries we’ve hand-selected—discover how they craft their brews behind-the-scenes and sip fresh beer at the source. Get an inside look at this incredible, growing industry, and learn all about the special breweries that shape Asheville’s beer scene.

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On our all-inclusive tours, visit 3 local craft breweries and enjoy up to 12 samples of different beer as well as a snack. Our expert beer guides will lead you on behind-the-scenes tours of brewing facilities, share the history of beer, and entertain with fun facts and stories. Plus, all your transportation needs will be covered. With tours around 3.5  hours, City Brew Tours is the perfect addition to any itinerary!

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Noble Cider founder shares what's next after downtown taproom closure

ASHEVILLE - The search is on for a new home for Noble Cider’s second taproom.

On Jan. 9, the Asheville-based hard cider company announced its downtown location at 49 Rankin Ave. would close on Jan. 14 ahead of the lease ending on the building.

People searching for Noble’s collection of flagship and seasonal hard cider, spritzers and mead on draft may visit its West Asheville cidery and taproom at 356 New Leicester Highway.

“The company’s doing great. This taproom is staying open. Production is continuing. We’re just looking for a space that fits us better,” said Lief Stevens, owner and cidermaker who founded the company in 2012.

Stevens plans to open a new second location that best suits the cidery’s needs.

Noble’s downtown presence

In 2019, Noble Cider opened on Rankin Avenue as a high-end restaurant-taproom concept called Greenhouse. After the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, the business reopened as solely a taproom.

“It didn’t make sense to restart that after COVID, so we’ve been operating it as basically just a taproom since then but paying for a space that has a big commercial kitchen in it,” Stevens said. “It just makes sense for us to look for a smaller space that’s better set up to be just a taproom that’s a better fit for us.”

The Noble team intended to find a new location before the lease ended so there would be a smooth relocation transition, but a new venue wasn’t secured in time.

“We definitely want to open additional taprooms. It may be downtown or it might be in a different area of Asheville,” Stevens said. “We like our main taproom, which is kind of far out but it’s in an area that doesn’t have a whole lot, so we get a lot of neighborhood people who are regulars. We kind of like that atmosphere.”

Noble’s new taproom wish list

There are several aspects that the new taproom is envisioned to have, beginning with visibility. The downtown location lacked foot traffic, Stevens said.

“That location, it’s not really on the beaten path. It’s not far from it but it’s not on one of the central streets, so that was a little bit of a challenge,” he said. “We had a fair amount of people, but they kind of have to find you; they’re not people who just happen to walk by.”

Stevens envisions the new venue to be more intimate ― perhaps about 2,000 square feet. The Rankin Avenue space was too large after the restaurant closed and it became a dedicated taproom.

Stevens said he would like a building that’s already at least partially set up for a restaurant or taproom, which will make it easier and more affordable for permit approval and to convert the space for the cidery.

“We want to find a space that’s enjoyable for people to come to, convenient for people to come to,” he said. “We like to have spaces that have a nice atmosphere; so just finding a space that’s nice for us.”

Evolution and future cider and of Noble Cider

Stevens said he continues to see growth in Noble’s retail presence across its distribution market, which includes grocery stores in North Carolina and the Southeast and now Japan.

Stevens said the company’s focus is on production and “putting out great ciders.”

Noble co-owns the juicing company, Blue Ridge Pure, in partnership with Lewis Creek Farm, an orchard in Hendersonville.

“That’s one of the more exciting things for us,” Stevens said. “As part of that company, we were able to plant a specialty orchard seven years ago of old American apples, English apples and French apples that are cider-specific.”

He said the apples are high in tannin and polyphenols that make good cider and differ from the dessert apples that are mostly grown in the United States.

“We’re getting some good yields now from that orchard, and that’s exciting as a cidermaker because we’re able to start making these specialized ciders that are quite different from a lot of other cider out there,” Stevens said. “They’re much like the ciders they produced in England and France.”

The Lewis Creek Orchard Reserve small-batch collection includes French, English and American heirloom ciders, as well as the Black and Gold, which is a cider made of Arkansas Black and Goldrush apples aged in brandy barrels.

Stevens said the demand for cider continues to rise for the company and beverage industry.

“When we started, we had to visit bars and restaurants trying to get them to take our cider and we had to explain what cider was to a lot of people, and that has completely changed,” Stevens said. “Everyone knows what cider is now, and it’s much more accepted.”

Customers’ tastes have changed as they discover variations of cider beyond the “sweet and soda-like” kind, he said.

“People are not starting to explore very dry cider and ciders made of specialty fruit,” Stevens said. “It’s exciting to see that evolution, similar to what happened in craft beer where people discovered beer could be something different than the mass-produced beer out there. There’s a whole world of cider that people are starting to learn about and explore.”

Noble Cider

Where: 356 New Leicester Highway, Asheville.

Hours: 3-9 p.m. Wednesday-Friday; 2-9 p.m. Saturday; 2-8 p.m. Sunday.

Info: For more, visit NobleCider.com and follow on Instagram @noble_cider .

Stories you may have missed:

• Downtown taproom to close in 'temporary pause,' discounts offered
• Biltmore Winery partners with Noble Cider, Chemist Spirits on new hard cider, malt whiskey
• Check out these 2024 Asheville Restaurant Week meals and deals, Jan. 16-22

Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram @PrincessOfPage. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times .

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Foraging Tour

Natural areas around asheville, nc.

• Address: , Asheville , NC 28801
• Times: 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
• From: 01:30 PM to 04:30 PM
• Dates: June 01, 2024 - June 30, 2024
• Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
• Admission: $85
• Phone: (828) 209-8599
• Email: [email protected]
• Visit Event Website
• View Venue Details

Join us for three hours “off the eaten path” as we uncover the Garden of Eden all around us: edible greens, berries, mushrooms, flowers, nuts, roots... we never know what we might find.

Together, we’ll wander through field and forest, meeting ten to twenty wild foods, focusing on the ones you might find in your own woods or backyard. Then you get to eat what you’ve found! After our wild gooseberry chase, we’ll whip up a little tasting. Then you can either learn to cook your own catch of the day or let one of three award-winning restaurants prepare it for you, with lunch or dinner, for free. You could call it “Survivor meets Iron Chef.” We call it  find dining .

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Asheville's beer community embraces other craft beverage styles, new events on horizon

ASHEVILLE - Craft beverage producers are finding strength in collaboration and innovation in a constantly changing industry climate.

Consumer and tourism trends have been motivators for local beverage businesses to launch new events and enhance experiences to bring imbibers back to the taprooms.

“It is a difficult time for the brewing and tourism industry in Asheville. We have seen a decrease of folks visiting taprooms, both community members and tourists,” said Karis Roberts, executive director of the Asheville Brewers Alliance, an organization that promotes and supports its members across Western North Carolina.

Roberts said the local brewing community has seen a lot of closures and restructuring but is resilient and dedicated to its craft. And although Asheville's earned the “Beer City” moniker, there's more going on.

Roberts said there is growth happening, like the expansion of existing taprooms, new taprooms opening in and out of the city, and product development. Some businesses have launched and widened distribution, collaborating with other breweries, organizations and businesses to create custom products. And many are experimenting with new styles and zero-proof and gluten-free options, like natural wines, hard cider and seltzer, hop-infused water and nonalcoholic beer.

“We think ‘Beer City’ and think that’s all that we have to offer but there’s so much creativity and pivoting ― we’re not all just drinking beer anymore,” Robert said.

This year, two event series will aid the charge to bring craft beverage producers and the community together, Beers with Buds: An N.C. Beer Gathering and Asheville Beer Week.

Here’s what to know about the new and returning celebrations, plus more beverage festivals and events coming up in 2024.

Beer with Buds

Beers with Buds: An N.C. Beer Gathering will debut 7- 10 p.m. March 29 at The Mule, Devil's Foot Beverage Co.’s taproom at 131 Sweeten Creek Road.

Ten craft breweries across North Carolina have been invited to serve samples of their beers.

“Rather than approaching it as a beer festival, we wanted to step away from the overcrowded, overindulgence driven. … We want to bring it to a level where people could actually taste the beer that’s in front of them and have a relationship with the craft and learn more about the brand," said Miranda Michaels, The Mule’s events and tasting room manager.

The North Carolina Beer Gathering brewery guest list features:

• Oden Brewing, Greensboro
• Fonta Flora Brewery, Morganton
• Wilmington Brewing, Wilmington
• New Anthem Beer Project, Wilmington
• Heist Brewery, Charlotte
• Town Brewing Co, Charlotte
• HopFly Brewing Co, Charlotte
• Wooden Robot Brewery, Charlotte
• Brewery Bhavana, Raleigh
• Bond Brothers Beer Company, Cary

Tickets are $40 and include unlimited tastings of 30 beer styles and a souvenir glass. Guests must be ages 21 and up for the tastings but the event is open to all ages. Purchase tickets at devilsfootbrew.com .

Retail products and merchandise available for sale. Food will be available for purchase on-site, and The Mule’s full bar will be open.

Michaels said the event kicks off a recurring series in August, September and October, focused on Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina breweries where the company is expanding its footprint.

Devil’s Foot was founded as a nonalcoholic beverage producer, but as the company continues to grow, its portfolio has steadily diversified in styles and alcoholic offerings to include products like the zero-proof and Friend of the Devil canned cocktails lines that meld the soda company’s farm-fresh ingredients with brewers and distillers’ products.

Michaels said it’s a reason the beverage business, which doesn’t brew beer, is hosting a beer-centric event series.

“Craft beverage is craft beverage whether it’s a craft soda, wine or beer,” Michael said. “It’s crossing over the line so we can continue to co-create and support each other as a craft beverage community and not really as ‘we’re nonalcoholic and you make alcoholic products.’ It’s removing the competition and bringing in more camaraderie.”

AVL Beer Week 2024

Asheville Brewers Alliance’s 13th annual Asheville Beer Week will return with 10 days of entertaining, educational and engaging programming, uniting the community, artists and beverage industry professionals, May 16-26 at various locations.

AVL Beer Week, designed to promote tourism and the beverage industry across Western North Carolina, will feature craft beer, ginger beer, cider and other craft beverage producers from the area.

“The craft beverage folks are always working on innovation and ways they can pivot when things get hard,” Roberts said. “I’ve noticed so much tenacity from the brewing industry community. As things progress, I’m hoping to ignite more passion for the industry and bring back Asheville Beer Week this year.”

The schedule includes an artist panel to discuss label designs, a Women in Brewing panel discussion with interviews of women working in the industry in roles from marketing to accounting to leadership, and a “No Beer Here” event where nonbeer craft beverages will be offered.

On May 24, Craft Beverage Expo will include educational seminars on topics like finance and operations, business leadership and technical brewing, in partnership with the N.C. Craft Brewers Guild, plus a special tasting experience.

On May 25, the Beer City 20k Relay will kick off with teams racing through the city.

Events are open to the public, including the Craft Beverage Expo, and many events are family-friendly and free.

Roberts said ticketed events were priced low to maintain accessibility and the schedule and tickets will be available soon at avlbeerweek.com .

More beverage festivals and events coming up in 2024:

• June 22. Carolina CiderFest at Urban Orchard Cider Co.-South Slope.
• Aug. 1-4. AVL Fest, presented by Wicked Weed Brewing and Worthwhile Sounds, at various locations.
• Oct. 12. Burnpile at Burial Beer Co.-Forestry Camp.

Stories you may have missed:

• Fletcher food hall to make a splash with bourbon, burgers, tequila, tacos, more
• Asheville, breweries, beer bar rank as US, global favorites
• Terra Nova Beer Co., Loott House partner to open new taproom, restaurant
• What to know about the Filipino food truck making a home at Zillicoah Beer Co.
• Asheville Food Bites: New pizzeria, dog park bar, craft beer brewery

Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram @PrincessOfPage. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times .

Downtown taproom to close in 'temporary pause,' discounts offered

ASHEVILLE - An Asheville cidery has announced the impending closure of its downtown tasting room as relocation plans are delayed.

On Jan. 14, Noble Cider’s taproom at 49 Rankin Ave. will close.

A social media post on the local business’s page on Jan. 9 stated the lease for the downtown building will end at the end of the month and a new venue hasn’t been secured.

“We have been trying to find a much busier and bustling new location for our Downtown Taproom, but our search has taken longer than we had hoped,” the post read.

The closure of the downtown cidery is referred to as a “temporary pause.”

Noble Cider’s other location will remain open at 356 New Leicester Highway.

Noble Cider is offering 10% off all its products through Jan. 14 at the Rankin Avenue taproom only.

“We just celebrated our 11th Anniversary and have exciting plans for our future, that we look forward to sharing with you very soon,” the post read.

This story is developing. Follow Citizen Times for updates.

For more about Noble Cider, visit noblecider.com and follow on Instagram @nobleciderdowntown .

Stories you may have missed:

• Asheville food bites: Restaurant relocation, cidery closing, coffee shop opening, more
• Asheville bids goodbye to restaurants and breweries that closed in 2023
• Biltmore Winery partners with Noble Cider, Chemist Spirits on new hard cider, malt whiskey

Tiana Kennell is the food and dining reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA Today Network. Email her at [email protected] or follow her on Instagram @PrincessOfPage. Please support this type of journalism with a subscription to the Citizen Times .