05/07/2026
We don't have apples yet, but take a gander at this Golden Hornet crabapple from 2024. Isn't it beautiful? It just happens to be the key apple in our latest Little Batch Hornet's Nest.
Historically, we used this tree as a pollinator only, but for a handful of years we thought we might try harvesting and pressing the fruit for a future cider. (One of us was especially excited for this experiment 😁).
It turns out, on its own, it is highly acidic and highly tannic. One might say abrasive. After a grand tasting of our other ciders, one blend stood out to us as a perfect companion for our Golden Hornet. By blending it, we took the sting out, rounded it into a semi-dry, and the result is harmonious. Notes of honey, cherry, and a slight vegetal hint. Delicious.
If you look at the tree right now, you will see that it is LOADED with blossoms. We're optimistic that it escaped damage from the freeze because the buds weren't as developed at that time. The bees are out pollinating it right now, and we hope to have a good harvest this fall. Thank you bees!
This weekend we reopen Orchard Bar. Come by, and try Hornet's Nest in a flight. We're excited to share it with you!
