For CiderScene, we have our focus largely in the Midwest region. It’s not only because we are from the area, but it is from the great cider culture in this region. And it is only continuing to grow. Fans rejoin because Chicago & the greater Illinois are is getting another star in our cider sky. Our cider friends from Stem Cider, out of Denver, have reached a distribution agreement with Breakthru Beverage in Illinois. This means that Stem Cider will start selling their brand of cider in February of this year.
And why should we be excited for Stem Ciders products? To appreciate this deal, let’s delve deeper into who they are. Formed in 2012, founders Eric Foster and Phil Kao had a strong desire to bringing back cider tradition. Stem Cider follows three principles: quality, style, and tradition. Eric & Phil created a recognizable brand in the diverse category of craft cider, and as such, has received critical acclaim and awards at both the local and national level. Their ciders include: Real Dry Apple Cider, Hopped Apple Cider, Raspberry Apple Cider, along with their newest products from the Off-Dry Series. The off dry series focuses on ingredients and not drying the cider completely or back sweetening. This series will use stop fermentation to prevent residual sugar from the apple to sweeten the cider too much, leaving a pleasant sweetness. That is what we love to hear! More companies are going this direction and staying “truer to the apple”. We are excited to welcome Stem to Illinois and are excited to see cider fans pick up this new treat!
If this isn’t enough good news for one day, Stem Cider will be hosting a plethora of events in Chicago from Feb. 7th through the 19th. To find these events, please visit their site here: stemciders.com/chicago-events.