Liberty Ciderworks in Spokane, Washington is an urban cidery focused on traditional methods. While located in the city, their cider reflects deep agricultural roots.
Cider maker and founder Rick Hastings ferments with wild yeast, ages cider for 3 to 12 months, and source fruit from nearby orchards. This approach creates cider with structure, balance, and regional identity.
This interview is with Jamie, who is a certified pommelier, and her husband Ben Pratt who both partnered with Rick in 2019. This interview was recorded at CiderCon in 2026.
00:00 Cider Eyes Open
00:40 Meet Liberty Cider
01:58 Ciderville News Kanga
04:46 Western Mass Cider Stop
07:51 Tour Prep And Pacing
12:53 Spokane Urban Cidery
15:09 Orchards And Sourcing
17:20 How They Joined Liberty
21:54 Tasting Room Third Place
23:29 Cider Series And Flights
29:33 Educating New Drinkers
31:07 American Apples Lineup
32:01 On The Table Golden Russet
32:22 Golden Russet Terroir
33:22 Tasting Notes Compared
35:31 Wild Yeast Unfiltered
38:43 Reserve Versus Core
39:19 Cider Club Shipping
41:59 Future Growth Strategy
44:14 Visit Spokane Taproom
46:38 Events Puzzle Festival
49:21 Barrel Program 55 Chain
52:39 Wrap Up Ciderchat
54:13 Closing Orchard Song
Find the full show notes for Episode 496 at CiderChat.com
Direct Link at: https://ciderchat.com/podcast/496-liberty-ciderworks/ Listen to wherever you get your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss what's coming next in Ciderville.
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