Stowe Cider & Burlington Beer Co: Jam for the Land Benefit
August 9, 2018Pineapple Cider from California
August 15, 2018When you are traveling around the Midwest there are a couple of cities that have a growing and developing cider scene. Cities like Milwaukee are still engrained in their roots of beer culture. Luckily, there is a cider bar in the Walkers Point neighborhood that is creating a cider following in the shadow of the beer colossus.
So, What’s Up With the Neighborhood?
This neighborhood has long been an accepting area for the gay community. Alongside some of the city’s LBGTQ bars and clubs, you will find some award-winning restaurants, a brewery, and a distillery. If that is not what you are looking for then you are still in luck as this area also hosts a coffee roaster, an ice cream shop, and Fuel, a motorcycle-themed bar and restaurant. Once you have had a belly full of food and cider at Lost Valley you can take a sleep at the Iron Horse Hotel which is a transformation of a 100-year-old warehouse into a unique hotel. Whatever it is this neighborhood continues to grow and develop so make sure to stop through!
From 2016 and Beyond!
Lost Valley opened up in June of 2016 and they have just come upon their 2nd anniversary. While the idea of the bar was to feature ciders from across the country they also have their own house ciders on tap as well. The ciders I sampled during my visit were the Lost Valley Currant Affair, Lost Valley Rum Barrel Reserve, Alter Ego Guardian, and Blakes Wild Nova. They also have a bottleshop to the side of the taproom where you can fill howlers, pick up cider cans and bottles or pick a bottle to drink in the taproom itself! This unique feature allows the neighborhood and those who visit more availability to our favorite alcoholic beverages!
Where Did the Name Come From?
Chandra Rudolph said that the name came from her fathers so-called “lost valley” which was an area he would visit. From there the name truly captures their sense of adventure, travels across the world and now the exploration of cider culture. The sense of wonder and inspiration is evident in the building with the décor and design aesthetic.
What Else is Unique Here?
Whether you are sitting out on their patio or inside at the bar top Lost Valley keeps their adventure open and the selection open. They have 20+ taps with other cider makers ciders and their own options. You can get these in cider flights featuring 4oz tap tasters. You can also pick up a bottle or can from their bottle shop to drink. If you are looking for something stronger or different they offer a great selection of cocktails, beer, and wine as well. If you are looking for a snack they also have gluten-free snacks like cheese plates and popcorn.
Milwaukee Cider Scene?
Since Milwaukee is typically seen as a beer location the bar and growth of knowledge in cider had been approachable. Since the area is full of energy and other craft consumers cider has been received well. The constant changing of taps, variety on the shelf, and curation of the cider list make the whole experience comfortable. Whether you are a cider expert looking to try the countries best ciders or a newbie unfamiliar with what you like, they have something for everyone. In fact, in October there is an annual event for beer and cider drinkers to taste several different offerings. Lost Valley has attended as a special guest for the last couple of years. If you would like to come to the MKE cider and nano brew festival click the link here. Through events like this and the continual success of Lost Valley you should see cider making an impact on the area!