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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