At Our Core - About BlackBird Cider Works

At Our Core…

It’s all about the apples.

At BlackBird Cider Works, we have been exclusively sourcing apples from an estate orchard overlooking Lake Ontario in Barker, New York since 2011.

We are truly passionate about the art of crafting hard ciders that highlight the authentic flavors of the fruits.

In our cider-making process, we put the apple at the forefront, steering away from excessive sweetness and artificial additives, to deliver a taste that’s crisp, clean, and refreshing.

When you drink our locally-sourced craft hard cider, you’re enjoying the pure, natural flavors of New York State apples.

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Our Roots

2006

Donovan Orchards, founded by Scott Donovan and co-founder Margaret Glover, was established in 2006 when Scott purchased a commercial apple orchard in the Town of Somerset in Niagara County from Bittner Singer Farms.

Scott and Margaret began experimenting with blends of apples making small batches of hard cider using a restored 1920s cider press and testing recipes in 5-gallon glass carboys.

Hello BlackBird - About BlackBird Cider Works

Hello, BlackBird

2011–2012

In late 2011, BlackBird Cider Works received their license to produce and sell hard cider and officially launched the brand, and later opened a tasting room in Barker in March of 2012.

Our award-winning hard cider was first recognized at the 2012 Great Lakes International Cider & Perry Competition, and our hard ciders have continued to receive many awards over the years.

Branching Out

2015–2018

As our hard ciders became more and more popular, BlackBird Cider Works partnered with Try-It Distributing and Lake Beverage to distribute our products at stores throughout the Western New York area.

In October of 2015, BCW began packaging our products in 12-oz. cans, and our infamous Christmas Cider made its first appearance in large chain stores in November of 2015. In 2017, we expanded our distribution footprint beyond New York to include 6 additional states.

Resurgence Brewing Company Logo - BlackBird Cider Works

Continuing to Grow

2023–today

In June of 2023, Resurgence Brewing Company officially announced its acquisition of the BlackBird Cider Works brand from Donovan Orchards, LLC.

Donovan Orchards logo - BlackBird Cider Works

About Donovan Orchards

In this ever-evolving craft beverage market, we’re looking to diversify and expand our product offerings while carrying on the BlackBird legacy by continuing to source juice pressed directly from Donovan Orchards.