It all started in an orchard in 2002.
After a chance meeting that involved a Thule and a single tree orchard, Lori and Ben began experimenting with fruit wines—plum and strawberry, among others—and ciders with friends and roommates. Little did either of us know that simple exchange of cargo space and a shared appreciation for fruit wines would lead to something far bigger than ourselves.
Fast forward to 2014, after years of basement ferments and a strong desire to have more control over what apple varieties were used in our craft, we took the plunge and bought a 10-acre piece of paradise. The following spring, we started planting rows and rows of cider apple trees despite neither of us having any formal agricultural training. But what we lacked in experience, we made up for it with persistence and determination. Now, years later, the fruits of our labor are ready to be shared with the community.
We deeply appreciate all the help we have had along the way, including unwavering support from our friends, family, and other fruit growers and cidermakers.
Science + Intuition = Creative Craft Ciders.
Our professional backgrounds are in fire science, accounting (Ben), and insect ecology (Lori), so we are drawn to the intersection of science and intuition in cider making. We enjoy blending technical precision with instinctive creativity to craft ciders that reflect the unique character of the apples. We produce a wide range of ciders, from the distinctive flavors of single varietals to creative blends of different apple varieties. We also craft modern ciders with botanical additions or that are paired with other fruits, ensuring there is something for every palate.
About Ben
Spent his early years honing his knack for competitive dog training, tinkering with herb gardens, and running through cornfields in rural Illinois.
His favorite apple for finished cider is Kingston Black; his favorite apple varieties to grow are Dabinett and GoldRush.
About Lori
Favorite childhood memories include camping and fishing with her grandparents in Montana and the Uintah Mountains.
Her favorite apples for finished cider are Kingston Black and Harrison; her favorite apples to grow are anything but Kingston Black and Harrison (love the apples, hate the trees!).
Our Pups
Hobbled Dog Cidery is a playful nod to the rescued animals we have been fortunate to share our lives with, including blind and three-legged dogs. We currently have four dogs: Penny (boxer, three-legged), Alfie (chocolate lab, blind), Sasha (Great Pyrenees), and Clyde (Great Pyrenees).
Gone but not forgotten: Cooper and Bailey (chocolate labs), Stevie (black lab, blind), Hutch (chocolate lab, three-legged), Brody (yellow lab), and Jade (black cat, FIV+).
