Springdale cidery judged among nation’s best

In November, Springdale cidery Black Apple finished in the top 10 at the ninth annual U.S. Open Cider Championship.

Cideries, wineries and breweries from Canada to California entered over 240 ciders representing 29 different styles. Black Apple was ranked No. 4, with judges from England, Canada and the U.S.

“We are thrilled to be recognized as one of the top 10 cideries by the U.S. Open Cider Championship,” said Leo Orpin, a Black Apple co-founder. “Representing our home state of Arkansas against traditional cider states such as Vermont and Washington in what is known in cider circles as one of the most prestigious cider competitions in the country is no small feat. We are proud of our team and look to continue producing great cider in its natural state.”

Orpin and Trey Holt own the business, which opened in downtown Springdale in July 2015 as the state’s only cidery. It manufactures and serves over 14 varieties of hard cider in a historic building and taproom at 321 E. Emma Ave.

The cider has been available statewide in bars and restaurants since 2018 and in cans statewide since 2019.

Black Apple has 23 employees.