Despite the summery weather, I still have a list of things I save for fall, which includes a stop at Yankee Cider in East Haddam. Not quite sure why I save this jaunt for October, as this spot is open all year long, but if you’ve never been, now is a perfect time! The barn on Petticoat Lane features lots of outdoor seating, a fire pit, and a food truck dishing up treats on the weekends. Inside, there are picnic tables and bar stools, plus board games for the asking.

I’m no beer drinker, but I find hard cider delish!

This time I got a tasting (which is more than enough for one or to share) and tried a variety of their gluten-free brews. My picks were New England Dry, Honeycrisp Blend, Tart Cherry, Captain Cait Blueberry, Stone Fence, and a ridiculously fallish and fun Apple Pie Sangria! The drier versions appeal to me, and the rum barrel-aged Stone Fence was my favorite: crisp and fresh with hints of rum. You’ll generally find twelve ciders on tap, plus a variety of fruit wines available as tastings, 12 oz glasses, 22 oz bottles, and growlers (to-go only). Fresh (non-alcoholic) apple cider is always available, too. Grab a group and head up to East Haddam on a beautiful fall afternoon. It’s a classic.

https://www.yankeeciders.com

Hours:

Thursday: 4 PM to 7 PM

Friday: 4 PM to 9:30 PM

Saturday: 12 PM to 9:30 PM

Sunday: 12 PM to 7 PM

23 Petticoat Lane, East Haddam