Welcome to a world of rich heritage and unique flavors at Gowan’s Cider, where tradition meets innovation in every sip. Located in , a hidden gem in the heart of California’s wine country, Gowan’s apple orchards date back to 1876. It has made cider for personal use for over a hundred years and commercially for over ten years. Gowan’s Cider has perfected the art of blending tradition with modern techniques to create a range of ciders as diverse as the cidery’s landscape.
From its iconic Gravenstein apples to the carefully selected heirloom varieties hand-picked from its orchards, each cider proves a testament to the passion and dedication of the Gowan family.
Best of all, Gowan’s Cider offers California’s first outdoor cider-tasting experience. Here guests can sip in the shade of hundred-year-old apple trees, surrounded by the beauty of Anderson Valley.
History and Heritage of Gowan’s Cider
Long before Anderson Valley became known for wine growing, the region supported the commercial production of apples and hops. Gowan’s Cider began in 1876 as an apple farm. It quickly developed a reputation throughout Mendocino County for its delectable fruits and vegetables.
Soon Gowan’s expanded its operation throughout Northern California. Gowan’s became known for its exceptionally flavorful apples. The most popular varieties include the Gravenstein, Fall Pippin, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Jonathan, and an indigenous California variety called the Sierra Beauty.
The Gowan family continues its legacy, passing down its knowledge and expertise from generation to generation. Today, Gowan’s Cider maintains a reputation for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, and its ciders have garnered numerous awards and accolades.
The Apple Orchards
The apple orchards are a sight to behold. Stretching as far as the eye can see, these orchards are home to some of the finest apples in the world. Gowan’s Cider takes great pride in growing its apples. It ensures that only the best fruit makes its way into its ciders.
From the iconic Gravenstein apples, which are hand-picked at the peak of ripeness, to the heirloom varieties carefully selected for their unique flavors, each apple is a testament to the rich agricultural heritage of Anderson Valley. The orchards are meticulously maintained. And the Gowan family uses organic farming practices and sustainable methods to ensure the health and vitality of the land.
Gowan’s is the first orchard or cidery in the US to receive an autonomous (driver optional) electric tractor. This is the newest farm technology in one of the oldest orchards. These tractors will drive up and down the orchard rows to mow the grass (called a cover crop). Cover crops are critically important to protect soil and streams— something the Gowan family has been doing for generations. Visitors can see the tractor now in the cider orchard.
The Cider-making Process
At Gowan’s Cider, the cider-making process is a labor of love that begins with hand-picking the apples from the orchards, then pressing and fermenting the juice.
After the cider ferments to perfection, it ages for a period to develop further the unique flavors and aromas of the unique heirloom apple. This aging process allows the cider to mellow and mature, producing a smooth and well-balanced drink. The final step in the cider-making process is bottling and packaging, where each bottle is carefully labeled and sealed.
All steps in the process take place onsite at Gowan’s, a rare farm-to-table cider.
Unique Flavors and Varieties of Gowan’s Cider
One thing that sets Gowan’s Cider apart from other cideries is its wide range of unique flavors and varieties. From the Gravenstein cider, with its crisp and tart flavor profile, to the more complex and nuanced heirloom ciders, there is something to suit every palate. And with over 100 different heirloom apples to choose from, Gowan’s can make several different single-varietal ciders. The Gravenstein cider is a true classic, capturing the essence of the valley with its bright apple flavors and refreshing finish. It’s nicknamed “Summer in a Glass” and is Gowan’s most popular cider. The Gravenstein cider has also won numerous awards, from the California State Fair to the Best in Class from the SF Chronicle and has won Best in Class at the most significant international cider competition in the world this year. This is Gowan’s second time to achieve this honor.
The Spiced Apple cider tastes well-balanced and not too sweet. And the Sierra Beauty, made from the native California apple, is a smooth, savory, still cider. Gowan’s also offers cider slushies and cocktails, a fun twist to cider tasting.
In addition to traditional ciders, Gowan’s Cider offers a selection of limited-edition and seasonal releases. It includes barrel-aged ciders infused with spices and botanicals to experimental blends that push the boundaries of traditional cider making. These limited-edition releases are a testament to the artistry of Gowan’s Cider.
Pairing Gowan’s Cider with Food
One of the best things about Gowan’s Cider tasting experience is the cider/food pairing. Cider maker and fifth-generation farmer Sharon Gowan introduced our group to pair different ciders with small bites. A table generously covered with a variety of foods provided a delicious tasting experience. It featured vegetables, nuts, and fruit; savory bites including blue cheese, brie, aged cheddar, ham, and bacon; and sweet treats, including cookies and candy. And the most exciting pairing included a range of sauces from pesto to peri peri. Sharon encouraged us to try many combinations to note how the flavors of the ciders change and complement from bite to bite.
Visiting Gowan’s Cider in Anderson Valley
If you’re interested in experiencing Gowan’s Cider’s rich heritage and unique flavors firsthand, visiting its outdoor tasting room in Anderson Valley is a must. It allows visitors to sample various ciders and learn more about the cider-making process.
Knowledgeable staff are on hand to guide you through the tasting experience, sharing insights and stories about each cider. The tasting room also features a gift shop where guests can purchase bottles of their favorite ciders to take home.
You can also purchase fresh apples, pumpkins, and more. Important note: Gowans’ Cider Orchard is at 6320 Hwy 128. It’s about a half mile from Gowan’s Oak Tree fruit stand (Different branch of the same family tree). Gowan’s Cider has become the tasting room hot spot in Anderson Valley. Capacity is limited. Reservations are recommended.
Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Anderson Valley comes alive with events and festivals celebrating cider. They include the annual Harvest Kickoff, where you can sample ciders and fresh apples and enjoy live music and entertainment, to the Apple Blossom Days in the spring. It also features World Cider Weekend, Fall Colors in October, and the Harvest Party and Chutney Challenge.
They provide an opportunity to meet the cider makers and learn more about the history and traditions that have shaped this iconic brand.
Where to buy Gowan’s Cider
If you can’t visit Anderson Valley, don’t worry – you can still enjoy Gowan’s Cider. Its ciders are available for purchase at select retailers and online. Check its website to place an order for delivery. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, attending a special occasion, or want to enjoy a delicious cider at home; Gowan’s Cider is just a few clicks away.
An Authentic Cider Experience
Gowan’s Cider in Anderson Valley offers a truly authentic cider experience. Whether you’re a cider connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of craft beverages, Gowan’s Cider has something to offer. So, the next time you’re in Anderson Valley, discover the rich heritage and unique flavors that await you at Gowan’s Cider. Your taste buds will thank you.
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Note: Feature photo “Bird’s Eye View of Anderson Valley” by Fabian Jauregui @fabianjg
