Double Shovel Cider Company

If you are looking for a truly unique taste of Alaska, then Double Shovel Cider Co. is a must-visit on your itinerary. Located in Anchorage, this company made history as the state's first micro-cidery. Since 2015, they have been crafting beverages that are a far cry from sweet commercial alternatives, offering guests a sophisticated and balanced flavor profile.

Double Shovel Cider. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Only high-quality ingredients are used in production: apples and pears grown in the USA, including those from the Pacific Northwest and Alaska itself. The cidery's name—Double Shovel—is steeped in local color; borrowed from hunters, it refers to a rare type of caribou antlers that resemble two shovels.

A point of pride for the establishment is its commitment to quality and guest well-being: absolutely all ciders are gluten-free. What began as a small project by three engineer friends has today evolved into a full-scale production facility with its own bottling line and a popular tasting room.

For those looking to check the availability of specific varieties or book a table for a large group, the current contact details are listed below. You can contact the company representatives by phone or via the official website.

The main attraction here is undoubtedly the tasting experience. Guests are offered a wide selection of ciders, ranging from uncompromisingly dry to smooth semi-sweet options. Be sure to try the "flights"—sets of several small pours of different varieties—to find your perfect flavor, whether it’s a classic apple version or unusual combinations featuring pineapple, cranberry, or hops.

During the warmer months, from May to September, the life of the cidery moves to the outdoor terrace. This is a great place to grab a bite, as popular local food trucks with a wide variety of cuisines often park nearby. If you want to take a piece of Alaska home with you, the on-site shop offers branded merchandise: from stylish hats and t-shirts to special growlers that can be filled with fresh cider right in front of you.

For those who do not consume alcohol, the menu always includes high-quality non-alcoholic alternatives. The staff is always eager to share insights about the production process and help you make a choice, turning a simple visit into a brief educational tour of the craft world.

The best way to reach the taproom at 502 W 58th Ave C is by car or by using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. The drive from the city center takes about 10–15 minutes. You can use Potter Drive, located in the immediate vicinity of the warehouse, as a landmark for navigation.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use city buses, though keep in mind that you will need to walk from the nearest stop through an industrial block. For travelers who value comfort, a taxi or rideshare from downtown Anchorage remains the most convenient and fastest option.

The story of this place began in 2013 when three childhood friends and engineers—brothers Jack and Jerry Lau and Galen Jones—decided to turn their hobby into something more. Inspired by the cider-making culture they observed during trips abroad, they spent two years meticulously experimenting with various apple varieties and yeast strains right in their garages.

Official production began in a warehouse space in August 2015, and just a year later, a cozy taproom opened at the facility. The name Double Shovel was chosen intentionally: it refers to the unique shape of caribou antlers, a rare trophy highly prized in Alaska's culture.

Since its opening, the company has grown from a small startup into one of the most recognizable brands in the state. Today, their products are featured in over 120 locations, and in 2022, the company took another major step by opening a second tasting location in the city of Kodiak.

To fully appreciate the skill of the local cider makers, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time to leisurely try several varieties from a tasting flight, discuss flavor nuances with the bartender, and simply relax.

If you visit during the summer months when the outdoor terrace is open and food trucks are on-site, you might want to spend even more time here, soaking up the atmosphere of a northern summer and socializing with the locals.

The taproom welcomes guests daily. From Monday to Saturday, the doors are open from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, while on Sundays, there are shortened hours from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Please note that the cozy summer terrace is only available during the warm season, from May to September.

Before visiting on holidays, it is recommended to check the official website to confirm the current schedule.

A visit to the cidery can easily be combined with exploring other interesting spots in the city. Its location in an industrial and commercial zone offers a chance to see Anchorage from a less touristy but very authentic and lively perspective.

A stroll through the surrounding area will allow you to discover historical landmarks and cultural sites, many of which are just a few minutes away by car.