Merridale Estate Cidery
Love apples, Road Trips Foodies? consider a tasty visit to Merridale Estate Cidery on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
The cidery, which relishes all things apple, pays homage to the luscious fruit in more ways than one. For starters, there’s the delectable, orchard-inspired menus crafted by Chef Dave Woolfall in Merridale’s bistro, la Pommeraie. There’s the Orchard Spa experience that blends the great outdoors, relaxation and natural spa products (think: dried apple cake) with the sweet indulgence of Merridale’s cider. (A glass of bubbles is sure to cap your his-and-her “Time for Two” indulgence in one of the cidery’s private yurts.)
These folks are serious about cider, not to mention their apple brandy. No shortcuts. No additives or preservatives. Just tried-and-true apple varieties, proven for centuries in Europe to produce the best ciders and brandies, plus a slow, natural fermentation to bring out the ultimate in flavor. Did you know that the Cowichan Valley’s warm climate mimics that of European cider regions?
Visitors can sign up for guided cider and brandy tours, which end (of course) with a taste of this sweet island nectar.