While beer drinkers can parse hops varieties and wine drinkers wax poetic about historic vineyards, cider deserves its moment in the contemplative spotlight. Andrew Blake, the CEO of Blake’s Beverage Co., has a keen understanding why his cider offerings have more people talking. When a beverage brand focuses on flavor, people are thirsty for more.
Cider can be overlooked in the beverage conversation. While many people love that crisp, refreshing sip during the fall, the drink is not just for post-apple picking or fall hayrides. A well-made, complex cider celebrates not only the apples but also the creative craft behind the beverage.
As a third generation apple farmer, Andrew Blake grew up around the farm. Long before he learned how to transform apples into cider, he understood that a “farmer first” mentality stems from harvesting superior ingredients. That sentiment continues to drive everything that he does with Blake’s Beverage Co.
Recently, I spent an enjoyable afternoon having a conversation with Blake. It reinvigorated both my appreciation for cider and the importance of building a brand with a focus on flavor.
When asked how the brand contemplates new concepts, Blake said flavors explorations are rooted in the farm. The team “trying to be authentic beverage formulation from the products that we grow ourselves.” Similar to how chefs appreciate “what grows together goes together,” understanding that well-sourced ingredients make the best products is key to the brand’s success.
Blake Focuses on Core Values to Create a Better Cider Company
Standing out in the beverage industry requires more than a pretty label and a fun catch phrase. Andrew Blake and Blake’s Beverage Co. have continued to grow by focusing on its core values. When a company nurtures the farm and harvests delicious products, the process does not have to be over complicated.
Blake explained, “it is about the raw ingredients, being a good steward of the process, and not messing it up.” While that simple philosophy seems straightforward, focusing on the basics ensures that the final product is as flavorful as its starting point.
While the brand has created unique flavors and slightly unusual combinations, it never sacrificed the core values. From the beginning to current offerings, Blake’s Beverage Co. is guided by the orchard, its bounty, and the beauty of letting nature lead the flavor journey.
Blake Looks to Cider’s Growth Opportunities
As the alcohol industry evolves, beverage brands need to adapt to consumer preferences. Blake believes Blake’s Beverage Co. is poised to meet both current trends and consumers’ demands.
With consumers choosing more “occasion-based” drinking, Blake sees cider fitting into that narrative. As a flavor first beverage, it lends itself to the “exploratory experience.” When a person chooses to sip just one beverage, that drink needs to bring unique, complex, and memorable flavor.
Additionally, the brand needs to resonate with people’s convictions. Blake believes that his company connects with people because it “comes from a real place” and is made by real people. It is more than just playful words on a label. There is heritage and history pressed into every can.
Blake’s Beverage Co. Is the Cider for Any and Every Occasion
Unlike other cider companies, Blake’s Beverage Co. offers a wide array of cider. From big, bold ABVs to more sessionable options, that range allows the brand to have a large following. Blake believes that the diverse range, its drinkability like a beer, and its production like a wine adds to its appeal.
The brand meets consumers where they are. Whether it is the guy who wants to have a couple of easy drinking ciders after work or the person who prefers one Imperial, higher ABV cider on a Sunday afternoon, there is an option in the portfolio for everyone.
Blake said it was intentional to create ciders “for every generation, for every drinker, for every occasion.” Not only does that expand the consumer base, but also it keeps loyal drinkers coming back to explore new offerings.
Which Blake’s Hard Cider Co. Flavor Should You Open This Weekend?
While there are several cider brands under the Blake’s Beverage Co umbrella, the signature one, Blake’s Hard Cider Co., is always a top choice. It shows cider’s depth and versatility. From easy drinking to bold ABVs and even seasonal favorites, there is a beverage for any and every occasion.
Personally, the Triple Jam is a great choice for people who want a fruity, complex cider offering. Whether paired with a chicken and waffles at brunch or enjoyed with grilled pork loin, the jammy, slightly sweet cider is refreshing. The juiciness adds brightness to any rich food pairing.
At the same time, the traditional American Apple is always a popular choice. Yes, it packs a hearty ABV, but it feels easy to drink.
Since I prefer to drink my dessert, this cider is great transformed into an adult float. Others can have that apple pie with ice cream. I prefer to enjoy that ice cream scoop in my glass. With a dusting of cinnamon sugar and a sprig of fresh mint, it is quite enjoyable.
Blake’s Beverage Co and its various brands can be found in 44 states across the U.S. For more information on Blake’s Hard Cider Co, Avid Cider Co, and Austin Eastciders can be found on their website.
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