Westport, Wash. — It’s not uncommon these days to find traditional hard ciders being served alongside wine flights at wineries, a trend that seems to be taking a gentle toehold among a small but growing number of Northwest wineries who are seeking ways to diversify their beverage offerings. Westport Winery, a Washington State producer of fruit wines since 2008, is one of those adding cider to their extensive product list. The business’s name is expanded to include their farm name Vineyards By-the-Sea Cider.
Photo: Winemaker Dana Roberts and his sister, general manager Carrie Roberts, both of Westport Winery.
“There are several reasons we decided to add hard ciders to our production,” said Blain Roberts, co-owner of the family business. “We already have the tools, technology and fruits needed to make great cider, but it was my wife and partner, Kim, who had the biggest reason to make this change in our offerings.”
“I saw a news story on the Mercy Ships project,” says Kim. “These volunteers take modern medicine to some of the poorest and most needy communities in Africa. It touched my heart. We already donate a portion of the proceeds of each of our wines to different local charities because we have a deep commitment and passion for our community. When I saw this story I realized there were needs in the world far greater than ours.”
Winemaker Dana Roberts, who has made a significant name for himself in crafting award-winning fruit wines, said, “We’ve got a strong skillset in working with fruit. You add that to the fact that we’re already growing the components on our farm, including apples, pears, blueberries, marion berries and raspberries, which makes it a sensible jump for us.”
For the first time, Carrie Roberts, the couple’s daughter and the winery’s general manager will take the lead in the production side of the business. “I’ve been wanting to get more involved in the winemaking, but that’s really been Dana’s forte. This gives me a chance to work with him in crafting some fun new beverage choices for our guests.”
Kim Roberts said, “Since we also make grape wines, it’s a little crazy to think about a whole new product line while we’re in the middle of harvest, but our pears and apples will be ripe later so it’s a good time to make this addition.”
Among other Washington State wineries producing hard ciders are Lake Chelan Winery, Eaglemount Wine & Cider, Hard Row To How. Westport Winery was featured in Tasting Room Magazine here. Voted the 2013 Best in the Northwest Destination Winery, it’s located on the corner of Highway 105 and South Arbor Road halfway between Westport and Aberdeen. This winery includes a restaurant, bakery, gift shop, nursery, botanical garden and arboretum. For more information or dinner reservations call Westport Winery at 360-648-2224.