Why does hard cider perform well in both summer and fall?
It naturally fits the occasions and flavors of each season. In summer, cider offers a crisp, light, refreshing alternative with a wide range of taste profiles, making it an easy choice for warm-weather occasions. In the fall, apples take center stage, making cider a natural fit for harvest season.
Cider also aligns well with an active, outdoor lifestyle across both seasons. Whether it’s cans at the beach, on a hike. or camping trip, or stocked for the perfect fall tailgate, cider fits naturally into the occasions consumers are already enjoying.
Which Woodchuck products should retailers make sure they have on their shelves/behind the bar?
Retailers should start with Woodchuck Amber, the OG cider, followed by fan favorites Granny Smith and Pearsecco. The popular Variety 12-Pack is also a must-have for the off-premise, giving consumers a range of Woodchuck styles in one pack. And with Imperial ciders continuing to gain popularity, the new Chuck’s Imperial Big Crush is an important addition to the shelf/bar as well.
What makes the upcoming 802 Barrel-Aged release so special?
The 802 Barrel-Aged release is a special, limited-batch cider that brings together several Vermont companies, all located within 20 minutes of our Cidery. Made with 100% sustainably grown apples from local partners Sunrise Orchards and Champlain Orchards, the cider is aged in WhistlePig whiskey barrels. The result is a semi-dry cider with distinctive notes of American oak and rye whiskey, crafted to be shared with good friends and good company.
We’ve seen great success with Woodchuck draft. What do you think is driving that growth, and why should more on-premise accounts consider adding it to their lineup?
Cider is a must-have for any on-premise account, and Woodchuck offers a range of styles that make it easy to find the right fit. Amber delivers a classic apple cider experience, while Pearsecco, Pineapple, and Blueberry offer variety and are driving strong volume in the market. Pearsecco is a dry cider that’s great on its own, or as the base in a mimosa, while Pineapple and Blueberry provide fruit-forward, semi-sweet options that are approachable and easy to drink.
That accessibility is a big part of what’s driving growth. Woodchuck is an easy entry point for consumers exploring cider, while still delivering the quality and consistency longtime Woodchuck drinkers expect. Pair those premium liquids with the right accounts – especially those engaging with consumers through trivia, bar games, live music, and similar occasions – and you have a strong recipe for the success we’re seeing with Woodchuck draft today.