For those of you keeping up with Willie’s bucket list, you might be starting to think this is sounding more like a pub crawl than anything else. I promise you it isn’t. As I previously mentioned, breweries just happen to be some dog lovin’ people! Willie’s next stop, Wild State Cider in Duluth, MN, has a special place in my heart. I have a tradition with my two oldest friends to go up to Duluth every year in December to go to Bentlyville, one of the largest free walk-through Christmas lights displays in the country (I highly recommend if you get the chance). Before touring the lights, we always stop at Wild State Cider. Early December is not terribly cold yet for Minnesota, so you can choose to sit around a bonfire under the twinkle lights, or you can warm up indoors where the high ceilings, woodsy tones, and natural lighting from the multitude of windows provide a very cozy feel. Willie had never visited the cider house though, so along with our friend Brianne, we decided to check out what it was like in June.
Known for their natural craft cider and their bright and wildly colored cans, Wild State Cider has a rotating selection that seems to cater to the time of year. While in the winter I recalled drinking a spicy apple flavor or being offered warm apple cider, the summer offered flavors like Hazy Pink Pineapple (also available in slushy form) and Peach Basil. They do have a small list of cider they call their “Flagships” that are available consistently. Gone were the bonfire rings, replaced by picnic tables and a wide-open garage door separating the patio area from the taproom. I do recommend eating prior to hitting up the cider house as the only food they have to offer are light snacks like chips and pretzels. Wild State is conveniently located within walking distance of many great Duluth restaurants though! And while it wasn’t there the day we went, their website says they have their very own ice cream stand serving up Vermont-style soft serve. Before leaving, we had to check out the cute shop located in the taproom where you can get cider to go (cans or growlers) and plenty of other merch including a toy for your furry friend!
