Liberty Ciderworks in Spokane, Washington is an urban cidery focused on traditional methods. While located in the city, their cider reflects deep agricultural roots.
Cider maker and founder Rick Hastings ferments with wild yeast, ages cider for 3 to 12 months, and source fruit from nearby orchards. This approach creates cider with structure, balance, and regional identity.
This interview is with Jamie, who is a certified pommelier, and her husband Ben Pratt who both partnered with Rick in 2019. This interview was recorded at CiderCon in 2026.
Orchard Partnerships
Liberty Ciderworks does not own orchards. Instead, they work closely with growers:
- Bishop’s Orchard (Palouse region)
Focus: British cider apples - Top Cliff Farms (Prosser)
Focus: American heirloom and crab apples
This model supports regional agriculture while maintaining control over fruit quality.
Cider Series at Liberty Ciderworks
At Liberty Ciderworks, the cider list is intentionally organized into distinct series. This helps guide both new and experienced drinkers through a wide range of styles.
Core Cider Series
- Artisan Series
Small-batch blends that highlight balance and drinkability. Often the entry point for new visitors. - American Series
Made with American heirloom apples and crab apples.
Profile: bright acidity, lower tannin, familiar apple character. - English Series
Built from traditional English cider apples.
Profile: higher tannin, drier finish, more structure. - Heirloom Series
Focused on single varietals or blends showcasing historic apples.
Goal: highlight the character of individual apple varieties. - Reserve Series
Limited releases with extended aging or special handling.
Often available first to cider club members.
House Flight (Tasting Experience)
A recommended way to explore Liberty Ciderworks:
- McIntosh (single varietal, familiar entry point)
- Crab apple blend (adds tannin and complexity)
- English blend (structure and dryness)
- Garratza (Basque-style cider)
This flight acts as a guided introduction to global cider styles.
Ciders Tasted During This Interview
During this conversation, I had the chance to taste several ciders that reflect the range and philosophy of Liberty Ciderworks. Each one highlights a different apple, style, or aging approach.
Golden Russet (Single Varietal)
- Sourced from Bishop’s Orchard and Top Cliff Farms
- Profile: bright, structured, with natural sweetness
- ABV can reach 9%–11.5% depending on site
- Expresses terroir clearly, showing differences between growing regions
This cider drinks closer to a white wine, with richness balanced by acidity.
55 Chain (English-Style Blend)
- Blend of Dabinett, Chisel Jersey, and Browns Apple
- Aged in oak
- Profile: tannic, dry, and structured
Named after a historic land measurement tied to Steptoe Butte, this cider reflects Liberty’s connection to place and history.
Contact Info for Liberty Ciderworks
- Website: https://libertycider.com
- Address: 213 E 3rd Ave, Spokane, WA 99202
Mentions in this Cider Chat
- Kanga Cider, Texas
- Four Phantoms Ciders and Mead – Greenfield Massachusetts
- Listen to episodes
- 345: Co-Fermenting Cider with Beer | Four Phantoms Brewery – their Graf is insanely delicious
- 452: Mac to Redfield: Four Phantoms Brewery Embraces Cider | MA
- Listen to episodes
- Cider Salon Hungary – April 18, 2026
- First ever salon in Hungary with makers from Europe and the United Kingdom
- Totally Cider Tours
You must be logged in to post a comment.