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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