Woodward Cider Co. isn’t just making drinks. It is built on a foundation of family heritage, technical expertise, and dedication to local agriculture. The founders, three brothers from Kamloops, British Columbia, saw an opportunity to combine their engineering backgrounds with their rural roots to create something unique. Their craft cidery focuses on delivering quality and creativity with every batch. The result is a range of products that not only reflect the apples of British Columbia but also the adventurous spirit that defines their approach to business. This craft cidery, located in Kamloops, British Columbia, was founded by three brothers who combined their technical expertise and passion for adventure to bring something new to the region.
The Story Behind Woodward Cider Co.
The Woodward family has deep roots in Kamloops. For generations, their farm stood as a testament to the agricultural history of the area. In 2019, Ben, Adam, and Tim Woodward decided to take that history in a new direction. Trained as engineers, they had travelled and worked across Canada, gaining experience and building careers. Despite their success, they felt a strong pull to return home and contribute to the local community.
With the family farm as their foundation, the brothers launched Woodward Cider Co. They faced early challenges that tested both their technical and business skills. Fermentation proved to be more complex than anticipated, with initial batches requiring constant adjustments to achieve the right balance of flavour and carbonation. On top of mastering production, they had to navigate the regulatory landscape of alcohol distribution and build relationships with local suppliers and retailers. By applying their engineering mindset, they developed precise control processes and consistent quality standards, which helped them refine their craft and gain a foothold in the competitive cider market. Yet, their background in engineering helped them develop processes and products with consistency and innovation.
Crafting Ciders with Purpose
Woodward Cider Co. focuses on using 100% British Columbia apples sourced directly from orchards known for their sustainable practices. The apples are selected based on their freshness and flavour profile to ensure the ciders maintain a consistently high quality. This commitment to local ingredients supports the province’s agricultural economy and aligns with the growing demand for transparency in food and beverage products. Consumers who prioritize natural, gluten-free options appreciate the simplicity and authenticity of these ciders, knowing that the ingredients come from a trusted local supply chain. The brothers apply their technical knowledge to perfect the fermentation process, ensuring each batch meets high standards.
Blue Tractor Modern Dry
This cider takes its name from an old blue tractor on the family’s farm. It is designed to be a clean, straightforward drink. It has a crisp, sharp apple profile with a light effervescence. This cider is suited for those who want a pure apple experience.
Send It Raspberry Infused
Send It reflects the adventurous ethos of the Woodward brothers. They wanted a cider that encouraged spontaneity and boldness. The addition of raspberries gives it a rosé hue and adds a layer of fruitiness without overpowering the apple base. The balance makes it appealing to a wide range of tastes.
5 Liner Not So Dry
Named after their grandmother’s knack for witty limericks, this cider combines a playful backstory with a complex flavour. It leans towards a slightly sweeter finish but retains enough acidity to remain refreshing. Its colour is a deep gold, making it visually appealing as well.
The Tasting Experience
Expanding Creativity with the Innovator Series
The Innovator Series pushes boundaries by introducing unexpected flavours. Each release is an experiment designed to challenge traditional cider profiles.
Dragon Fruit Hibiscus is a mix of tart and sweet with a vibrant colour. The hibiscus adds floral notes, while dragon fruit contributes to the tartness. Salted Lime aims to recreate the sensation of a margarita, with citrus brightness and a hint of salt to round it out.
Visiting Woodward Cider Co. offers more than a drink. The tasting room is designed to be casual and welcoming, providing an opportunity to experience the products firsthand. Set alongside the orchards and vineyards, it allows visitors to see the origins of the ingredients in their glass.
Guests can sample ciders through carefully curated flights, designed to highlight the range of offerings from dry to fruit-infused options. Each flight typically includes the Blue Tractor Modern Dry, Send It Raspberry Infused, and one of their Innovator Series selections. This allows visitors to compare different profiles and find their preferences. Feedback from guests frequently mentions the balance and variety across the tasting flight, with many appreciating the unique seasonal options introduced throughout the year. There are picnic grounds and lawn games available to make the experience more interactive. The seasonal patio is a draw during the warmer months, offering an open space to relax with friends and family.
Connecting with the Community
Woodward Cider Co. participates in local events and hosts its own activities to stay connected with the Kamloops area. The vineyard music sessions bring in live performances, creating opportunities for both entertainment and engagement. During the fall, the cidery organizes pumpkin patches, attracting families for seasonal fun. They also run a Christmas tree farm each holiday season.
Their gardens, which feature views of the surrounding landscape, are available for private events such as weddings and corporate functions. These events reflect the cidery’s growing role as a community hub.
Where to Find Their Ciders
Woodward Cider Co. offers on-site sales through their tasting room. Their products are also stocked in key retail locations across British Columbia. In Kamloops, customers can find their ciders at local liquor outlets that support craft producers. Expanding their reach, the company partners with regional distributors to ensure availability in both small towns and metropolitan areas. For those looking for updates or special releases, the cidery maintains an active online presence through their website and social media.
A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
Woodward Cider Co. exemplifies how tradition and modern expertise can coexist. The Woodward brothers’ journey from engineering to cidermaking has resulted in a product that speaks to both their roots and their adventurous spirit. For those interested in exploring craft ciders, a visit to Woodward Cider Co. offers a chance to experience a story of family, innovation, and local pride in every glass.
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