Located: 890 Danforth Rd, Hillier, ON K0K 2J0

If a day of apple picking ain’t enough for ya, then you should make your way to Loch Mór Cider Company in Prince Edward County.

As I drove down Danforth Road after leaving Wellington in Prince Edward County on our own self-guided wine tour we finally made the decision to stop in.

Our first visit to Loch Mór Cider Company was a long-coming and delightful experience that left me with a new appreciation for craft cider here in the county.

They were led by Sara & Gary, dedicated professionals whose traditional methods guarantee high-quality ciders.

This was an experience that’ll leave even the most discerning drinker with a newfound appreciation for craft cider making!

Main Features of Loch Mór Cider Company

• Large outside seating area with picnic tables.
• Comfortable inside the seating area to relax.
• A different range of flavors.
• A chill and relaxed cidery.
• Their own mature planted orchard.
• You’re allowed to tour the orchard.

A Brief History of Cider in Prince Edward County

Did you know that cider has been part of Prince Edward County’s heritage for over two centuries?

Long before vineyards became ubiquitous, the local farmers would grow their own family orchard and grow a wide range of apple types.

In fact, during the 1800s, cider was the most popular alcoholic beverage in the beautiful countryside near Wellington, Prince Edward County.

Many families would have their own private orchards and apples pressed at home.

However, with the advent of Prohibition, the rise of industrialization, and the industrial-scale orchard monoculture, traditional cider-making slowly dwindled down to almost nothing.

Thankfully, in recent years, with the growing interest in small-batch, locally sourced food and drink, cider-making in Prince Edward County has seen a much-deserved revival.

And the Loch Mór Cider Company followed The County Cider company at the forefront of this exciting movement, highlighting the region’s unique terroir and rich apple orchard heritage in every bottle.

At harvest time I’d pick apples growing up here for money during high school.

The Process of Making Loch Mór Cider

At Loch Mór Cider Company, the focus is on quality, not quantity.

Their small-batch approach ensures that every cider is crafted with care, attention, and expertise, following the classic European cider-making techniques.

Each apple varietal is hand-selected for its unique flavor, texture, and aroma, and then pressed using a traditional rack and cloth method that captures the essence of the fruit.

The freshly pressed juice is fermented naturally using the wild yeast present on the apple skins, and then aged in stainless steel tanks or oak barrels to develop its full character and complexity.

The Ciders

Whether you prefer a dry, crisp cider that pairs well with food or a sweeter, fruitier blend that’s perfect for sipping on a sunny patio, Loch Mór Cider Company has got you covered with many heritage apple varieties.

Traditional Dry Cider – Their flagship Loch Mór Cider Company cider, which is zesty and refreshing, with notes of green apple and citrus.

The Hopped Cider – Has a subtle hoppy bitterness and a floral aroma that balances well with the sweetness of the apple.

Danforth Road Series: Yarlington Mill 2021 – Crafted from Yarlington Mill apples in a single varietal barrel fermented process.

It’s smooth and full of flavour with spicy clove aromatics that pair perfectly with its soft tannins in every glass.

Serve cold for the best experience possible; This one is second place at GLINTCAP – the world’s largest cider competition!

Simply sip away your worries while letting this one-of-a-kind treat take care of itself.

Danforth Rd Series: Kingston Black 2021 – Tantalize your taste buds with this one-of-a-kind, award-winning cider made from the rare and illustrious Kingston Black apple.

Enjoy its delicate floral aroma of spring that gently fills your nose before making way for a balanced, yet complex flavor.

Thanks to wild fermentation in barrels and traditional method bubbles in every glass!

What’s more? It was awarded first place at GLINTCAP – aka the world’s most prestigious cider competition… mmm mmm delicious!

Danforth Rd Series: Blush – A cider as unique and gorgeous as a rare red rose – perfect for the summer.

This natural rosé made from special apples cultivated in our Danforth Road estate orchard is fizzy, floral, and finishes with an unmistakable crispness!

Hopped Can – A convenient can with Ontario apples and light hops flavor. A unique cider that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds!

This brew is an aromatic match made in heaven – offering floral and tropical aromas with zesty citrus notes for a smooth finish.

Enjoy this flavor bridge between beer and cider at 4.6% ABV!

Sour Cherry Can – This is a beverage that can satisfy your sweet tooth while still packing some major flavor punch!

This dry cider with Local Sour Cherries is the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. It’s like cherry pie in liquid form – just add an enormous fan base to give it 4.6% ABV!

There are many other types of craft cider that rotate on taps. For example, during my visit, I had a cider that taste like scotch. This was great because I love scotch!

The Tasting Room

If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Loch Mór Cider Company experience, we highly recommend visiting their cozy and rustic tasting room.

Here, you can sample all of their cider, learn more about the history and culture of cider making in the region, and even take a tour of their orchards and production facilities.

In addition to the cider, Loch Mór Cider Company also offers a range of delicious apple-based treats, such as apple chips, toffee, and cider vinegar, as well as branded apparel, glassware, and other merch.

And if you’re looking for a unique gift for the cider lover in your life, they also offer custom gift baskets and event catering services.

Other Suggested Stops in The Area

• Harwood Estate Vineyards & Winery
• Hillier Creek Estates Winery
• Stanners Vineyard
• Traynor Family Vineyard
• Broken Stone Winery
• Lacey Estates Winery
• The Grange Winery
• The Old Third
• Hinterland Wine Company
• Trail Estate Winery
• The County Cider Company
• Crimson Cider Company
• Stock & Row Cider
• Apple Falls Cider Company
• Clafeld Cider House & Market

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for a memorable and authentic Prince Edward County experience, you can’t go wrong with Loch Mór Cider Company.

Their delicious ciders, friendly staff, and commitment to sustainability and community make them a must-visit destination for any cider lover.

So, next time you’re in the area, make sure to stop by their tasting room, take a tour of the facilities, and enjoy the refreshing cider taste of Prince Edward County. Cheers!