This episode of Cider Chat explores the growing Maine cider scene through Absolem Cider Company in Winthrop, a farm-based cidery helping shape New England's evolving cider identity.
Located on a 60-acre farm in Winthrop, Maine, Absolem Cider Company is a cidery that expresses place, heritage apples, and hospitality.
In this episode, Ria sits down with cider maker Zach Kaiser to explore how Absolem blends traditional inspiration with modern experimentation. From wild-foraged apples and native fermentations to wine-inspired co-ferments and Basque-style pours, Zach shares how Maine's apple history is shaping a new generation of New England cider.
00:00 Intro Cask Cider
00:06 Meet the Guest
01:27 How Cask Service Works
03:08 Why Absolem Uses It
04:07 Episode Roadmap
04:48 Ciderville News MOFGA Workshops
07:19 Listener Shoutout Chalkys Cider
08:29 Featured Chat Begins
09:23 Absolem Farm and Tasting Room
10:31 Where Winthrop Fits in Maine
12:42 Zachs Cider Origin Story
14:24 Founding Absolem Through COVID
16:34 Coferments and Wine Blends
18:13 Wend Wild Apple Cider
22:32 Fermentation Yeast and Malo
24:57 Beer Hybrids and Collabs
25:39 Flagship Ciders to Try
27:18 Sidra Style Foeder Program
28:40 Taproom Vibe and Winter Maine
29:21 Year Round Tasting Room
29:31 Local Bar Vibe
30:41 Lake Town Tourism
31:41 Cider As Experience
32:22 Ice Cider And Mistelle
32:47 Brandy Barrel Aging
34:36 Lodging And Visits
35:14 Signature Events Calendar
35:30 Bembel Fest Details
37:57 Anniversary And Collabs
39:30 Pressing And Production
41:36 Heating And Expansion
42:58 Five Year Vision
44:30 New England Cider Association
50:12 Wrap Up And Links
Find the full show notes for this episode at CiderChat.com
Episode 492: https://ciderchat.com/podcast/492-absolem-cider-company/
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