Griffin B.
Yelp
I enjoy cider, though typically don't get it much, and will confess as being kind of ignorant as to how different and good it can really be. But I got a great lesson in that regard after visiting Santa Cruz Cider.
There are all sorts of libations on offer here, in many different styles, so you are sure to find something to please your pallet. I wound up going with a large flight, and found some real gems on their menu. The Wooden Tooth is one of their mainstays, and has a good balance of dryness and sweetness. Several of their other entries take this base and get infused with other flavors, such as the Oh Snap, with ginger, and the Don't Make Me Blush, which is a most excellent pomegranate-infused cider. There are also some very delightful concoctions like the wild-fermented Wild Side Gravenstein, and the Lot 24, with emphasis on using all local apples. But the two which impressed me the most were the Sweet Tooth, and the Ciderkin. The first being their dry cider with fresh juice added, making a good balanced tasting drink with lower ABV. Also on the lower ABV end, the Ciderkin is a second-run ferment, only clocking in at 2.5%, and is most refreshing on warm sunny days. And while I was not able to try them this time around, the menu also includes things like Hot Mulled Cider, and Cider Slushies. I'll put a pin in those for next time. In all, I liked pretty much everything on offer here!
Beyond the drinks, the location is just my kind of place. I love little hole-in-the-wall spots, and this certainly qualifies. There's definite charm here, and if the weather is nice, you should take a seat outside and enjoy your refreshments. Plus, the service here was outstanding and very friendly! Prices for everything are decent, though proportionally a bit higher than if you were drinking beer, since most of their pours are smaller sized. They sell several of their ciders to-go in individual cans and 4-packs, too, and I just had to bring some back with me.
So all in all, I am very happy to have found these folks. I am for sure looking forward to my next visit, and I highly recommend any craft brew hunters in the area have them on their radar.
Cheers!