Various ciders and meads. Photo courtesy of Tim Hayner.

(posted by Colin Lenfesty)

With fall getting into full swing and apples in abundance, there’s nothing quite like having a glass of Washington made cider, even more so if it’s one that was crafted by you.

With the recent success of Cider Summit NW and the formation of the Northwest Cider Association, interests have been piqued and there seems to be more and more information available. If you ever thought about taking a crack at making your own hard cider or honey wine and learning more about off flavors, apple and honey varietals, and some handy tips and tricks, check out the Mead and Cider Clinic put on by the Washington Homebrewer’s Association and then stick around to judge a flight or two in the organized competition. From WAHA:

On Saturday, October 16th, WAHA will host a Mead & Cider Judging Clinic at Larry’s Brewing Supply, prior to the Mead and Cider Cup (which all participants are encouraged to judge in).  There will be discussion about mead and cider production, styles, and judging.  Come to Larry’s on Saturday the 16th from 8:45 am until around noon.  The clinic is free for anyone who will be judging in he afternoon, however, a fee of $10 will apply for anyone who comes strictly for the clinic (will include lunch, informational handouts, and sampling of various meads & ciders).

If you’ve felt unsure about judging meads and ciders or just want to learn more about these styles here’s a couple of great opportunities to explore these interesting styles.  Email Tim@bigalbrewing.com for further information and to reserve spot.

Schedule:
8:45 arrive
9:00 Overview to mead making
9:30 Mead tasting
10:30 Overview to cider making
11:00 Cider Tastings
12:00 Lunch
12:30 Start juding Mead and Cider Cup
3:00 M&CC BOS

There will be knowledgeable judges, cider and mead makers  on hand to answer your questions, and Larry’s is fully stocked for anything you may need if you decide to give it a go and make your own batch.