Michigan is famous for its beer. Understandably so. We have Founders, Short’s, Bell’s, and more. Grand Rapids has even earned the nickname “Beer City.” However, some of the best hard ciders in the country are also Michigan Made.

Over the last few years, I’ve become a massive fan of hard cider. I’m to the point where I’ll take one over a beer, at this point. Don’t judge me! They’re sweet, crisp, and refreshing. I also feel like I can drink more than two without getting full, unlike beer. Lucky for me, and other fans of hard cider, some of the best comes from the Mitten State.

Michigan Is A Cider Mecca

People will come from all over the country to enjoy Michigan Made hard ciders. I certainly can’t blame them. From Metro-Detroit to the U.P., you can find tasty ciders all across the state. With the way these cider companies are growing, our beer reputation could soon be gulped down.

Additionally, Michigan has tons of Cider Mills that you can visit and enjoy fresh cider (sometimes hard), donuts, and scenery. It’s a big part of our culture in the Fall, and not every state enjoys this activity like we do. They don’t realize what they’re missing out on.

With so many options to choose from, it was tough narrowing it down to five Michigan Made hard ciders. However, after much blood, sweat, and tears I was able to do it. I’ve done my best to try as many local hard ciders as possible, and in the end I’m proud of the list. I would stand by all of these as a recommendation, and enjoy them myself.

Having said that, many great options were left on the cutting room floor. Virtue Cider is one of the most recognizable examples of hard ciders from Michigan. I’m sure you’ve seen their cans around. Unfortunately, they didn’t make the list…and they’re delicious! So, you know the final five are going to be delicious. Okay, enough waiting. Let’s get to the list!

5 Michigan Made Hard Ciders You Need To Try

• Tandem Ciders - Suttons Bay

  I had the opportunity to check out Tandem Ciders on a visit to the Traverse City area. I was blown away. The farm where it’s located was breathtakingly beautiful. Then we tried the ciders…and it’s hard to get any better than that.

  My favorites include: Smackintosh, Green Man, and Bee’s Dream.

• Blake's Hard Cider Co. - Armada

  Blake’s has some of the best flavors and variations in the cider game! It’s also not far from my place in Clarkston, so it’s easy to get to and always a treat. Additionally, they have the best cheese curds I’ve ever had. No joke. However, the cider remains the star of the show.

  Favorites include: Passion Seeker, Flannel Mouth, and Cherry Limeade.

• Left Foot Charley - Traverse City

  It was after tasting some ciders from Left Foot Charley’s that I realized I could and should become a cider guy. Farewell beer! They have some of the best tasting ciders around. It truly created an obsession.

  The recommendation is Cider Girl. It’s my favorite cider in the world. To me, it tastes like cinnamon apple sauce. It cannot be beat.

• Vander Mill - Grand Rapids

  Grand Rapids is known as “Beer City USA” but once the people find out about Vander Mill Cider, that could change. Vander Cider Rules. The next time you’re in Grand Rapids, skip all the carbs in beer and get yourself a Vander Mill Cider.

  Recommendation: Honeycrisp. It’s the best apple, and the best cider. That’s just logic to me. It does not disappoint.

• Starcut Ciders - Bellaire

  I’d be willing to bet that even if you haven’t tried Starcut Ciders, you’ve seen their cool looking cans around. That’s what drew me to them initially. I’m always a sucker for a cool can. I know they say don’t judge a book by its cover but…would you buy a book with a blank cover or an awesome one? I know which one I’m going with. Thankfully, the inside is just as great as the outside. They also don’t add sweeteners to their cider, so there’s an extra benefit.

  Recommendations: Squishy and Octorock

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