Cheers to 250 Years: Division of Liquor Control Debuts America 250-Ohio Hard Cider Trail

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohioans are invited to raise a glass to 250 years of American spirit as the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Liquor Control debuts the Ohio Hard Cider Trail, a statewide adventure celebrating Ohio's blossoming craft cider scene.

Now through Dec. 1, 2026, explore a trail rooted in history and flavor, winding from today's vibrant cideries back to the orchards first tended in the days of Johnny Appleseed. Discover the tastes, traditions, and stories that have made cider an Ohio original.

"The Ohio Hard Cider Trail offers a meaningful opportunity to connect Ohioans with a beverage that helped shape daily life in our state and across early America," Division Superintendent Jackie DeGenova said. "Hard cider has deep roots in our shared history, from the orchards planted by Johnny Appleseed to the craft cideries revitalizing the tradition today. We're excited to invite Ohioans to explore this revival, support our local makers, and learn more about a drink that has been part of our story from the very beginning."

How to Participate
Ohio adults 21 years and older can pick up their free Ohio Hard Cider Trail Passport (pictured here, here and here) at over a dozen participating cideries located across the state or download and print a digital passport online. Cider-lovers can collect stamps by visiting participating cideries and asking for a stamp from their bartender. Participants are not required to consume a beverage in order to get a stamp.

Trail-goers who receive one stamp are eligible to be entered into a raffle to receive cider-themed items from participating cideries. Meanwhile, individuals who collect six or more stamps through December can redeem their passport to receive a limited-edition America 250-Ohio Hard Cider Trail bottle-opening commemorative coin, while supplies last. Passports can be redeemed by visiting com.ohio.gov/250cidertrail where participants can submit a photo of their completed passport and complete a brief submission form. Once passports have been received and verified to meet requirements, the coin will be mailed to eligible participants.

Participating Cideries
From small batch brilliance to bold, flavor-packed pours, the following Ohio cideries - listed in alphabetical order - are ready to show off their craft.

• Hellbranch Cider Co. - 3738 April Ln., Columbus, Ohio 43227
• Henmick Farm & Brewery - 4380 N. Old State Rd., Delaware, Ohio 43015
• Lincoln Way Vineyards - 9050 W. Old Lincoln Way, Wooster, Ohio 44691
• The Lumberyard Winery & Supply - 118 W. Front St., Napoleon, Ohio 43545
• Old Bridge Brewing Company - 281 W. Main St., McConnelsville, Ohio 43756
• Plum Run Winery - 3946 Broadway, Grove City, Ohio, 43123
• TinCap Hard Cider and Taproom - 59 W. Sugartree St., Wilmington, Ohio 45177
• Tipsy Farmer Winery - 32849 Speidel Rd., Hanoverton, Ohio 44423
• Tipsy Teller Urban Winery - 123 N. Main St., Minerva, Ohio 44657
• Sixth Sense Brewing & Taproom - 275 Portsmouth St., Jackson, Ohio 45640
• Spring Hill Cider Works - 6062 S. Ridge Rd., West Geneva, Ohio 44057
• Sundog Ciderhouse & Winery - 145 Town Center Ave., Columbiana, Ohio 44408
• West End Ciderhouse Tavern - 234 W. Washington St., Athens, Ohio 45701

Turning Tradition into a Trail
Ohio's cider-making legacy is in part thanks to John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed. Born just two years before the nation itself, Chapman's influence continues to be felt as America marks its semiquincentennial.

Though often remembered through nursery rhymes and folklore, Chapman was a skilled nurseryman who began as an orchardist after traveling west from Pennsylvania into Ohio. His first nurseries took root in northwest Ohio, but much of his prolific craftmanship could be found in northeastern Indiana as well. Chapman's apples were not typically eaten. Naturally sour and bitter, they were far better suited for cidermaking. Unlike the sweeter apple varieties of today, Chapman's trees were grown from seed instead of grafting.

Hard cider played a significant role in early America. Some settlers drank cider in place of water because it was consistently safer than natural water sources which contained bacteria. With Prohibition taking effect in 1920, most apple varieties that were used to make cider went extinct. Even after Ohio voters overwhelmingly approved repealing state prohibition in 1933, the cider that early Ohioans drank no longer existed in the same way.

Through the Ohio Hard Cider Trail, Ohioans can experience, support, and learn about the revival of a beverage that has been part of America's heritage from the very beginning.

Other America 250-Ohio Events
The Ohio Hard Cider Trail is one of several events, activities and initiatives the Ohio Department of Commerce has planned to celebrate America's 250^th anniversary. Visit com.ohio.gov/America250 to view additional opportunities to participate in this yearlong celebration.

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About the Division of Liquor Control
The Division of Liquor Control is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.