Ben Nielsen is behind Chico-based Lassen Traditional Cider, founded in 2015. His love for fermentation began when he started brewing beer during his college years in Corvallis, Oregon. Yet it was his desire to do something with unused apples from his neighbor's backyard that steered him into cider making, where he found his true calling. Today he sources heirloom apples from the Cascade and Sierra Nevada foothills, all within 160 miles of Chico.

We love that Ben’s ciders are 100% apple, fermented with native yeast in neutral red wine barrels. He adds no sugar, does not pasteurize or filter, and uses minimal sulphur (when he uses it at all). Ben only makes cider seasonally, when the apples are at their peak of ripeness. The results are standout natural ciders!

Featuring: Newtown Pippin -- a classic American heirloom; Winesap -- an heirloom variety with a wine-like flavor; Heirloom Blend -- a blend of King David, Newtown Pippin, Winesap, and Arkansas Black heirloom varieties.

Flight of 3 ciders, $15 Wednesday, January 29th, 4-7pm.

Ben will be present 5:30-7.

As always, featured bottles will be for sale at 10% off to tasting participants, during the event only. Wine Club Members get 20% off tastings.