Craft Cider & Mead Tasting in New Orleans (45 Minutes)

If you’re craving an authentic, hands-on experience with local beverages in New Orleans, the Craft Cider & Mead Tasting offered by Broad Street Cider is a delightful choice. Though New Orleans is famed for its vibrant music, rich cuisine, and historic charm, this tasting tour offers a surprisingly intimate glimpse into the city’s emerging craft beverage scene.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized approach of Jon & Diana, the owners and artisans behind these handcrafted products, creates a welcoming and educational environment. Second, the quality and variety of four distinct, dry, effervescent ciders and meads are perfect for those interested in exploring beyond the typical drinks.

A potential consideration? The tour is strictly 21 and up, which might exclude families traveling with children. Plus, the 45-minute duration is brief but packed, so for those wanting a more extended tasting or tour, this might feel a little condensed.

This experience suits adventurous drinkers, curious travelers, and those looking to add a unique culinary twist to their New Orleans visit. If you’re interested in small-batch, locally crafted beverages and enjoy engaging conversations with passionate producers, this tasting will likely hit the spot.

Key Points

• Small Batch Focus: The ciders and meads are produced on-site, highlighting craftsmanship.
• Intimate Group: With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience feels personal and engaging.
• Educational & Delicious: Learn about ingredients and production methods while sampling four unique drinks.
• Value for Money: At $19, the tasting offers quality and authenticity that justifies the price.
• Convenient Location: Starts at Broad Street Cider’s rear patio on South Broad Street, easily accessible in New Orleans.
• Flexible Scheduling: Open Wednesday through Saturday, with options for special tasting times upon request.

What to Expect at Broad Street Cider & Mead

This 45-minute guided tasting begins on the rear patio of Broad Street Cider, a small urban cider house that champions local, small-batch production. As you arrive, you’ll notice the cozy, no-frills setup—perfect for a laid-back, authentic experience. The hosts, Jon and Diana, are passionate about their craft and eager to share their knowledge.

The tour revolves around four carefully curated samplings of dry, effervescent ciders and meads, all produced onsite. Unlike mass-market options, these drinks are made in small batches, emphasizing quality ingredients and traditional methods. You’ll get to sample an array of flavors, learning how ingredient choices and fermentation techniques influence the final product.

The Itinerary: A Brief but Rich Journey

While the tour is short, it’s thoughtfully designed. After a quick introduction, you’ll sample four different beverages, each showcasing different aspects of the cidery’s approach.

• First Sample: Likely a dry cider, highlighting the crispness and purity characteristic of their style. Samantha_T, one of the reviewers, called their batching “amazing,” and appreciated the variety offered.
• Second & Third Samples: Probably more complex, possibly including meads—honey-based fermented drinks. Reviewers like Jason_S rave about this, calling the ciders and meads “the best” they’ve ever had, praising the knowledgeable guidance and quality.
• Fourth Sample: Ends with a final tasting that leaves you with memorable flavors and insights into the production process.

Throughout, Jon and Diana are available to answer questions, discuss ingredients, and explain what makes their drinks different from commercial options.

Why This Tasting Stands Out

One of the most praised aspects from visitors is the knowledgeable guides and personal touch. Jason_S noted, “Diana and Jon are craft cider/mead wizards,” emphasizing their expertise. The intimacy of a smaller group (up to 10 people) fosters engaging conversations, making it feel more like a social gathering than a typical tasting.

The stunning local setting adds to the ambiance. Being an urban cidery, it’s a refreshing change from tourist-heavy spots. The outdoor patio allows you to enjoy your drinks in a relaxed environment, perfect for chatting and savoring the flavors.

The Value Perspective

At just $19 per person, this tasting offers excellent value. You’re sampling four high-quality, handcrafted drinks, learning about their production, and supporting local artisans—all within less than an hour. Compared to larger, less personalized tours, this is a focused, intimate experience that emphasizes quality over quantity.

Reviewers consistently mention the worthwhileness of the time spent. Mike_R declared, “This is a must-try,” highlighting both the informative nature and the enjoyable tasting.

Practical Details You Should Know

• Duration & Group Size: About 45 minutes, with a maximum of 10 travelers ensuring a personalized experience.
• Location & Accessibility: Begins at 2723 S Broad St, with easy access via public transportation nearby.
• Pricing & Booking: $19 per person, with bookings made 11 days in advance on average. Confirmations are instant, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
• Age & Accessibility: Strictly 21 and up; service animals are allowed, and the experience is suitable for most travelers.
• Additional Offerings: While they do not serve hot food, cheese pairings are often available, complementing the drinks nicely.

What You Might Not Love

The short duration might leave some wishing for a more extended experience. Also, since they don’t serve hot food during tastings, those seeking a full meal might need to plan accordingly. But for many, the focus on quality and conversation more than makes up for the brevity.

Authenticity & Local Flavor

This small, independently operated cidery embodies the spirit of craftsmanship and local innovation, providing a genuine taste of New Orleans’ burgeoning beverage scene. It’s a departure from the city’s more commercialized attractions and offers a real connection to the people behind the drinks.

This craft cider and mead tasting is ideal for adventurous drinkers eager to discover new flavors, culinary enthusiasts interested in small-batch products, and travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate learning about the ingredients and process behind their beverages, making it more than just a tasting but an educational journey.

If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and intimate activity that offers insight into craft beverage production, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a bit of local flavor with an engaging, friendly guide.

Is this tour suitable for someone who doesn’t normally drink cider or mead?
Yes. The tasting includes four samples and is designed to be approachable, even if you’re unsure whether you like cider or mead. Jon and Diana are happy to explain their products and answer questions.

How long does the tasting last?
Approximately 45 minutes. It’s a quick but comprehensive session that covers a lot of ground in a short time.

Can I request a different tasting time?
Yes, you can ask for special tasting times if they are in town. They are generally willing to accommodate requests.

Is it easy to get to the meeting point?
Yes. The activity starts at the rear patio of Broad Street Cider, located at 2723 S Broad St, which is accessible and near public transportation.

Are children allowed?
No, since the tour is strictly 21 and up. It’s designed for adult beverage tasting.

What’s included in the price?
Four samplings of cider or mead, guided by passionate owners. No hot food is served, but cheese pairings might be available on some days.

The Craft Cider & Mead Tasting in New Orleans offers a rare peek into the world of small-batch, handcrafted beverages crafted by passionate artisans. It’s an excellent way to spend a short, enriching part of your day, especially if you savor learning about ingredients, production techniques, and local innovations. The intimate setting and knowledgeable hosts make it stand out as a genuinely authentic experience.

Best suited for those who love discovering new flavors and supporting local businesses, this tasting balances education, flavor, and fun—all for a fair price. Whether you’re a seasoned cider enthusiast or just curious about the craft, you’ll likely find this tour both enjoyable and memorable.

Ready for a refreshing break from the lively streets of New Orleans? Book ahead, prepare your questions, and get ready for a taste of local craft at its best.