It’s Apple (Cider) Season

Apple cider surrounded by whole spices

As apples are picked their trees every year, we transform them into our favorite autumn snacks, from pies and donuts to candied apples and, of course, apple cider. The hard version of this timeless drink has been making a comeback in breweries and bars across the country, and there’s no better time to enjoy it than fall. Here, Columbia Distributing explains why you should be celebrating apple cider season with our beverages found across the Northwest.

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Understanding The Origin of Tea and Tea Benefits

Green Tea in a Cup.

Nothing refreshes and soothes like tea — the second most popular beverage in the world, after water. From organic, to ready-to-drink varieties — tea’s benefits are far-reaching. All tea, except the herbal varieties, are derived from the camellia sinensis plant. Its five categories include white, green, oolong, herbal and black tea. Its history is intermingled with different cultures and global leaders. A look at tea’s history and benefits: Continue reading…


4 Unexpected Ciders Packing a Tasty Punch

Photo Of A Bottle Of Angry Orchard Cider - Columbia DistributingBefore cracking open the usual beer, it’s time to take a look at another option that can often be forgotten. Head to a local beer and cider distributor to learn about the rich history of hard ciders and cast a shadow on the myths associated with this historic beverage. Many may consider it a sparkling apple drink for friends who can’t stomach the heaviness of beer, but this isn’t the case. There are a variety of drier hard ciders that are not only delicious but also deliver a great punch.

Bad Apple, 2 Towns

For those who think cider lacks ABV, they haven’t tried 2 Towns Bad Apple. An imperial hard cider packing a 10.5% ABV, this cider is fermented with Oregon local meadowfoam honey and is fermented in White Oak barrels. The White Oak gives it notes of wood that flow through the familiar taste of apple. Due to its bold flavor, this pairs well with creamy sauces or risotto.

The Muse, Angry Orchard

By aging this cider in French oak barrels, it reaches new levels of crispness and can please any palate. Angry Orchard now boasts a new extension in the Hudson Valley for its famous cider. Distributor aficionados and producers alike can agree that this brings a new flavor to the well-known brand. With an ABV of 7.7%, it’s a great option for those looking for a gluten-free alcoholic beverage.

Fruit Salad Cider, Rogue

Taking a spin on the classic cider, the Fruit Salad Cider shines a deep purple hue. While the ingredients still contain apple, drinkers are more likely to taste bright berry flavor from the plums, Marionberries, and cherries. This is considered a drier cider with a hint of sweetener giving it its tang. Additionally, the cider distributor, Rogue, doesn’t use any additives, chemicals, or preservatives when fermenting. Holding an ABV of 6.4%, it pairs well with fruit or a summer salad to accentuate its flavors.

Hop’n Mad Apple, Angry Orchard

This cider takes on the trait of many craft beers by using hops. The Strisselspalt hops are added to the cider post fermentation in a process called “dry hopping.” This allows for a hoppy taste without a bitter finish. ivermectin peak time Cider distributor Angry Orchard is known for its use of local Oregon apples such as Granny Smith, Gala, and Pink Lady. Hop’n Mad Apple has a 5% ABV and pairs well with pub food such as burgers, fries, or jalapeño poppers.

Before heading to another brewery, be sure to stop by a cider distributor to learn more about many unknown and surprising new flavors in the field of cider. Cheers!

Photo Credit: John Hritz


Six Drinks to Ring in the New Year

Photo Of New Year's Eve Drinks - Columbia DistributingA glass of champagne is tradition, but everyone needs something to sip on leading up to that special moment. Get the party started with these drinks from a local beverage distributor that are sure to be the next party favorite when the ball drops.

2 Towns Cider Ginja Ninja

This is a great option for starting off the night with a crisp, easy-to-drink cider. The strong ginger flavor compliments the apple undertones and leaves the palate feeling refreshed. Plus, 2 Towns sources all of their apples from the Northwest for a truly local flavor.

Fremont Brewing Barrel Aged Abominable Winter Ale

This barrel-aged winter ale is nice for those scotch drinkers who want a beer to sip on. The spicy aroma is undercut by a roasted chocolate flavor along with notes of vanilla and caramel. This is a good drink to savor, although the high alcohol content will still produce a buzz.

Pike Brewing Company Octopus Ink Black IPA

A celebration of citrus and pine hops with a dark roasted malt character, this brew packs a complex flavor combination. A little bit sweet, a little bit bitter, it’s the perfect beer to sit back and reflect on the year before the ball drops and confetti flies.

Unibroue La Fin de Monde

No better way to ring in the new year than with a beer that translates to “the end of the world” in French. On a less dark note, this beer will pair perfectly with that post-midnight snack later in the night. It’s a medium body beer with a refreshing hint of orange. This beer keeps a cult following, so order it early from the local beverage distributor before the year ends.

Backwoods Brewing Company Pecan Pie Porter

Finish the night off with a sweet treat from this festive porter. Notes of caramel and chocolate are balanced with a light roasted pecan finish. A truly seasonal brew that’s perfect for a toast to “Auld Lang Syne.”

Be sure to load up on a wide variety of beverages before the holidays, as these are sure to go fast. If hosting a party, be sure to reach out to a local beverage distributor to get the order in!