10 Reasons to Get Behind Apple Ciders

Apple cider has come a long way from its rustic, seasonal roots. Today, it’s a drink that bridges tradition and innovation—found in pint glasses, wine goblets, and sparkling flutes across Canada. Nova Scotia, in particular, has quietly become a force in the cider scene. Whether you enjoy a crisp hard cider or prefer the refreshing bite of a non-alcoholic version, here are ten reasons why cider should be a regular pour in your rotation.

1. The craft cider movement has redefined the drink
Once overlooked, cider is now made with the same care and creativity as fine wine or craft beer. Small-scale producers are using specific apple varieties, traditional fermentation techniques, and barrel aging to create layered, thoughtful ciders that are anything but simple. These aren’t your childhood ciders—these are complex, grown-up drinks with real depth.

2. It pairs beautifully with food
Cider is a natural companion at the table. Its acidity balances rich foods, its subtle sweetness soothes spice, and its bubbles refresh the palate. Nova Scotian ciders, in particular, tend to be clean and crisp—making them a dream with seafood, pork, cheese boards, and roasted vegetables. There’s a reason chefs are putting cider back on their pairing menus.

3. Nova Scotia is leading the Canadian cider scene
This province’s climate and soil are perfect for growing apples with character. Now, that same terroir is being captured in bottles. From Annapolis Valley to Halifax, cideries like Chain Yard, Annapolis Cider Company, Lake City, and Maritime Express are turning local apples into standout products that reflect both craft and place. They’re not just making cider—they’re putting Nova Scotia on the map.

4. Non-alcoholic options are now genuinely enjoyable
Forget the syrupy versions of the past. Today’s non-alcoholic ciders are dry, balanced, and full of real apple flavour. They’re crafted with just as much attention to quality, and they’re giving everyone—from designated drivers to folks skipping booze altogether—a reason to raise a glass without compromise.

5. Cider is naturally gluten-free
Since cider is made from apples, not grains, it’s a perfect option for those avoiding gluten. You don’t need to worry about hidden ingredients or missing out on flavour. It’s a clean, crisp alternative to beer that everyone can enjoy without fuss.

6. Every glass supports local farmers
Good cider starts in the orchard. In Nova Scotia, that means your drink helps sustain local apple growers and family-run farms that have been tending these lands for generations. Many cideries source directly from the same people who’ve been selling apples at roadside stands for decades. Supporting cider is supporting the entire local food chain.

7. It celebrates the apple, plain and simple
Cider doesn’t hide behind additives. A well-made cider lets the apple do the talking. Whether it’s the tartness of a Gravenstein or the aromatic quality of a Honeycrisp, you can actually taste the differences in the fruit. Each bottle is a snapshot of a season, a region, and the variety itself.

8. There’s a style for everyone
Bone dry or just a touch sweet. Still or sparkling. Hopped, fruited, or barrel-aged. Cider has more range than most people realize. Nova Scotia’s producers aren’t afraid to play—so whether you’re after a dinner-friendly dry cider or something fruity and festive, there’s a bottle that fits.

9. It’s sessionable and lower in alcohol
Most hard ciders sit around 5% to 7% ABV, making them a lighter, more drinkable option for social gatherings and long meals. You can sip without feeling overwhelmed or needing to switch drinks halfway through the night. And if you’re pacing yourself, you’ve still got great-tasting non-alcoholic options too.

10. At the end of the day, it just tastes good
Cold, clean, and refreshing. A great cider is like biting into the perfect apple—crisp, bright, and just sweet enough. There’s nothing artificial, nothing overworked. Just honest flavour in a glass, made with care by people who know apples.