KAMAS, Utah — Utah’s Dendric Estate inches closer to their initial release of sparkling cider next month as bench trials – small-scale blending and sensory analysis – take place at the orchard. Progress updates of this crucial production phase can be followed at @dendricestate on Instagram and TikTok.
“For our inaugural release, we’re aiming for a blend that is bright and crisp, with elevated acidity, subtle minerality, and a dry finish carried by fine natural bubbles,” said Dendric Estate Founder Brendan Coyle. “Conducting these blending trials on a small scale allows us to hone the precise profile we want to achieve for our debut cider.”
Bench Top Blending Trials
This key step in the production process involves tasting and evaluating multiple blend combinations to capture a specific balance of acidity, structure, aromatics, and mouthfeel. These bench trials draw from 15 fruit varietals, each contributing their own layers of acidity, tannin, and aromatics to the blending palate. Every trial blend incorporates different base cider lots, each bringing distinct qualities from the fruit—some bright and lean, others textured and rich.
Scale for Tank Preparation
Once the ideal blend is determined through these trials, it is scaled up for tank preparation. The full scale blend, known as the “assemblage,” is mingled in Dendric’s 1,000-gallon Charmat tank. This base blend sets the tone for the overall character of the final product.
Charmat Method Final Fermentation
Additional yeast and sugar are added to the assemblage in the Charmat tank for a final fermentation, which naturally carbonates the cider. Mass produced wines and ciders “force carbonate” their product, which leads to larger bubbles and an aggressive prickle. However, by using the Charmat Method, fine bubbles are produced by the yeast, which provide a smoother and softer mouthfeel on the palate.
Product Releases
The first Dendric Estate ciders are on track to be released in Utah in June 2025.
For more information about Dendric Estate, visit dendricestate.com or contact Christa Graff, of Graff Public Relations, at christa@graffpr.com or 435-640-7921.
About Dendric Estate
Nestled in the Kamas Valley of northeastern Utah, just 20 minutes from Park City, the 20-acre Dendric Estate is a premier mountain cidery with a mission to protect and nourish the land through environmentally sustainable practices. The Dendric Estate orchard provides a stage for growing classic apple varietals that balance tannins and acids, to produce dry, complex ciders that celebrate the fruit and the environment it comes from. For more information, follow Dendric Estate on Instagram, TikTok, or visit dendricestate.com.