**Cider and Fall Getaways Flourish in Essex County** Essex County is becoming a popular destination for cider enthusiasts and those seeking a fall weekend getaway. The region is home to several cideries, including one that was established after a hailstorm. Interest in cider is rising, particularly when combined with apple-picking excursions at local orchards. On-farm cider production mirrors the craft brewery movement, attracting those who prefer a beverage akin to white wine while supporting local fruit farmers. According to experts at Carolinia Cider Co., canned ciders are best enjoyed within six months, while many bottled varieties can be cellared for up to two years. **Carolina Cider Co.** Located on the Lehnert farm, about six miles from Harrow, Carolinia Cider Co. specializes in Dabinett apples, known for their bittersweet flavor. The Carolinia Dabinett cider is a favorite among fans of English-style ciders and pairs well with aged cheddar. It is available in wine-sized bottles. The farm's top seller, Posie, is a dry, rose-colored cider made from red-fleshed apple varieties. Other offerings include Pink Lady cider, crafted from the first apples to bloom and the last to be harvested, as well as Goldrush, which features banana and pear notes, and Red Heart, a cider aged for two years. For those seeking a more familiar taste, Carolinia Kindred offers a honey and apricot flavor profile, similar to popular brands found at local liquor stores. **Wagner Orchards** Wagner Orchards, located just off Highway 401, is known for its hard cider sold in 1.9-liter growlers. A popular activity in October is enjoying cider while strolling through the orchard and picking apples during a “sip and pick” outing. The entire farm is licensed for alcohol sales. For those looking to reduce the alcohol content of their cider, Katrina Wagner recommends blending hard cider with non-alcoholic sweet cider. The “Harold” is a special blend named after Katrina’s father, who founded the orchard in 1986, combining equal parts hard and sweet cider. Another suggestion for home enjoyment is mixing Wagner’s raspberry cider with a wheat beer from a favorite craft brewery. **Windmill Ridge Craft Cider and Beer** The Kranicz family, known for their peaches, launched a cidery in 2022 after a hailstorm damaged their fruit crop. Windmill Ridge now offers a variety of ciders, including Apple Peach Cider, a peach and pear blend, and a traditional apple and pear cider. An event barn is currently under construction on-site to enhance visitor experiences. **Local Beer and Wine Scene** The annual Lager than Life event at Storm Stayed in London has expanded this year, featuring a new guest lager available until Halloween. Details about the participating breweries remain undisclosed. Additionally, Supply and Demand Beer and Pizza in downtown London has begun offering wines from Therianthropy, a Niagara Region winery known for its low-intervention approach that highlights the local terroir. In Stratford, Black Swan is introducing two new spreads made with their beer: Porter Mustard and Beer Cheez spread. Meanwhile, Broken Rail in St. Marys has added two new beers to their menu. Sour beer enthusiasts can try Hot Tropic, brewed with pink guava and papaya, while Peach Buzz, a smooth wheat beer with peach flavor, is gaining popularity among patrons.