Why I Fell in Love with Hard Cider – and Found OKC’s Best Cider House

If you’ve ever hung out with me, had a drink with me, or survived a conversation about alcohol preferences, you know one thing: I do not like beer. Hops and I are incompatible. I avoid them at all costs.

Why I Fell in Love with Hard Cider

Enter hard cider. Oh, glorious hard cider. I discovered that I love, no, scratch that, adore hard cider. Angry Orchard, Redd’s, Strongbow, Ciderboys… I’ve tried them all and loved each sip. While in Indiana (which I have officially crown the Cider Capital of America), I discovered even more local hard cider brews. Indiana, I salute you and am handing out that title right here, right now.

Discovering OK Cider Co. in Oklahoma City

What I did not know was that Oklahoma City had its very own local hard cider brewery. Matt and I stumbled upon OK Cider Co. a couple of months ago completely by accident, like, “walked-in-looking-for-water-and-found-nectar-of-the-gods” kind of accident. They were just launching their Blackberry Radler for the season. I tasted it and instantly fell in love. And to keep us coming back, they rotate flavors like a DJ spinning all the hits.

Enjoying flights of hard ciders of ciders with friends.

Maybe the best offering at the cider house is flights! Yes, you read correctly, you can have a flight and taste several flavors before deciding on your favorite.

Matt’s Favorite: The Big Naughty

Matt isn’t usually a cider guy, but he found his match: the Big Naughty, a cider aged in a Jack Daniel’s barrel. Cider + Jack Daniel’s = instant love. He basically gave it a standing ovation with his taste buds.

Anyone who knows Matt might wonder if he was just connecting with the name, but nope, this one was genuine. For the hops lovers out there, don’t worry they do offer cider varieties with hops. (Although why anyone would ruin perfectly fantastic cider with hops, I have no idea.)

Matt enjoying a hard cider.

My Weakness: Key Lime Pie

As for me, my ultimate weakness is Key Lime Pie cider. YUM! I almost started crying when I went to grab some and… it was out. I’d like to say I took the news that it was out for the season with grace, but that would be a lie. Summer can’t come back fast enough. I’ve already set a calendar alert.

The Unique Atmosphere at OK Cider Co.

There’s a room with cozy seating where people can play games, have quiet conversations, or gather at communal tables. I’ve even seen groups crocheting together or working puzzles together. I have even played Jenga there. Then there’s a stage for live music, and the sound system? It’s built into the front of an old truck. Yep, an actual truck. Fascinating, right?

The cider house itself has the kind of vibe that makes you feel like everyone is welcome, cider enthusiasts, casual sippers, or anyone just in it for a good story (and a better drink). It’s the perfect mix of cozy, fun, and slightly magical.

Since it is downtown, it might become a place I stop by after work for a pint or two. Nope, I’ve never had anyone yell “JEN!” when I walk in. I have not quite reached Norm from Cheers status…yet. Maybe someday.

Visit OK Cider Co.

If you live in OKC and love hard cider or are ready to dump beer and upgrade your relationship, check out OK Cider Co. For more information, check out their website: OK Cider Co.

Disclaimer: Just in case you’re wondering, this is totally unpaid promotion. I am not receiving any consideration, not even Key Lime Pie cider, for this blog. I just really, really like cider.

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