Move over pumpkins; this fall, we’re looking at all things apples. Well, at least in the land of Pittsburgh distillers and wineries. So look no further than these five local businesses if you’re also craving ciders, meads, and more.

Threadbare Cider

1291 Spring Garden Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Named after the “threadbare” appearance of Johnny Appleseed, Pittsburgh’s Threadbare Cider—from the team behind Wigle Whiskey—offers bottle conditioned, hopped, wild yeast fermented, and barrel-aged ciders. Plus, each of their craft beverages is made from scratch with regionally sourced apples at Threadbare’s cider house on the North Side. Bonus activity: Threadbare also offers a unique family-friendly tour that focuses on the history of Johnny Appleseed.

Arsenal Cider House and Wine Cellar

300 39th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201

A little Pittsburgh history: Allegheny Arsenal, located in the lower Lawrenceville neighborhood, produced ammunition for the Union Army during the Civil War. This popular local cidery is named for its proximity to the area. Arsenal Cider House and Wine Cellar offers, as the name states, cider, wine, and features a calming cider garden.

Apis Mead & Winery

206 Mary Street, Carnegie, PA 15106

Located in Carnegie, Apis Mead and Winery provides a contemporary take on mead, aka honey wine. The mead at Apis is made exclusively with honey from Hickory, Pa’s Bedillion Honey Farm, and “captures Pennsylvania’s native honey flavor without being too sweet.” In season, Apis carries a seasonal cyser—a mead that has been fermented with apple juices instead of water—made with local apples.

McLaughlin Distillery & Norman’s Orchard

4799 Blackburn Road, Sewickley Hills, PA 15143

Asks locals about their favorite adult beverage from McLaughlin Distillery, and you’ll most likely hear about the Apple Pie Moonshine or Toasted Applewood Whiskey. This small batch craft distillery creates each of its bourbon, moonshine, and vodka offerings from scratch.

Rustic Acres Winery

234 Crisswell Road, Butler, PA 16002

In Butler, Rustic Acres Winery carries a variety of locally made wines, including apple, caramel apple, and spiced apple flavors.

STORY BY JORDAN SNOWDEN

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