Cider Chat

Author: Ria Windcaller: Award-winning Cidermaker, Podcaster Craft Beer Columnist

Interviewing cidermakers, importers, orchardists, foodies, farmers and cider enthusiasts around the world. Let's delve into the semantics of cideror is it hard cider, cidre, sidra or fermented apple juice? The truth is out there in Ciderville and we are going to find it. We toast in celebration of cider; As a libation, a gift from the gods, a taste of terroir, and a hard pressed good time. Ready to quench your thirst? Grab a glass and join this chat! See you in Ciderville!
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496: Liberty Ciderworks | Spokane, WA
Episode 494
Wednesday, 25 March, 2026

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. 00:00 Cider Eyes Open 00:40 Meet Liberty Cider 01:58 Ciderville News Kanga 04:46 Western Mass Cider Stop 07:51 Tour Prep And Pacing 12:53 Spokane Urban Cidery 15:09 Orchards And Sourcing 17:20 How They Joined Liberty 21:54 Tasting Room Third Place 23:29 Cider Series And Flights 29:33 Educating New Drinkers 31:07 American Apples Lineup 32:01 On The Table Golden Russet 32:22 Golden Russet Terroir 33:22 Tasting Notes Compared 35:31 Wild Yeast Unfiltered 38:43 Reserve Versus Core 39:19 Cider Club Shipping 41:59 Future Growth Strategy 44:14 Visit Spokane Taproom 46:38 Events Puzzle Festival 49:21 Barrel Program 55 Chain 52:39 Wrap Up Ciderchat 54:13 Closing Orchard Song Find the full show notes for Episode 496 at CiderChat.com Direct Link at: https://ciderchat.com/podcast/496-liberty-ciderworks/ Listen to wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss what's coming next in Ciderville. Prefer to watch? Find Cider Chat on YouTube for more cider stories, orchard adventures, and global cider culture. 💛 Enjoy cider? Help keep #ciderGoingUP and support this podcast Cider Chat. Your support helps keep the podcast on the air and makes it possible to share more conversations like this one.