Burton City Cider expands operations to double capacity

Burton City Cider has expanded their operations over the summer and doubled their production capacity

Burton City Cider has expanded their operations — Photo courtesy Burton City Cider

On a quick trip through the Slocan Valley, Nakusp and onto the Needles ferry last week, one of the businesses that caught my eye—and unfortunately it was closed when I went through the picturesque area—was a company called Burton City Cider.

Now as many of you travelers may know Burton is one of “don’t-blink-or-you’ll-miss-it” communities—small or maybe better yet “tiny” but very serene and inviting.

Burton City Cider expanded their operations over the summer and basically doubled their production capacity. In addition to their onsite facilities, Burton City Cider attends local Farmers Markets to sell their product as well.

According to their website, here are some details about the cider company, “The West Kootenays of B.C. is the perfect climate for growing apples Hot summer days, cool evenings and mild winters with plenty of glacial fed water. The Arrow Lakes is also a great vacation spot and that is how our story began. We bought an old farmstead, started some gardens, planted apple trees and each fall tested a new batch of cider. What began as a treat for family and friends has turned into a year round way of life. In 2016 Burton City Cider was created and we are now crafting crisp, dry ciders for your enjoyment.”

Owners/operators/cider makers/beekeepers—Alan and Barbara Ross are the people behind the unique business, which opened in the spring 2016.

“Burton City Cider is a name that reflects the history of the area. In the late 1800’s, Arthur Burton registered the town site as “Burton City." Like the pioneers who came before us, we planted apple and fruit trees and started making cider,” state Alan and Barbara Ross.

So here’s my advice, plan for a little extra time on your next trip through the Arrow Lakes area and stop by Burton City Cider to quaff your thirst.