The newest English cider, celebrating the rich maritime history of Northeast Michigan, will finally be available!

The latest Sanctuary Cider highlights a piece of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary: the historic schooner William H. Rounds, which was driven onto a shallow reef by a powerful Lake Huron storm in May 1905. You can spot the shipwreck on the bottle (we love the label!), but also just off of the Black River boat launch in the southern part of the sanctuary. It is a great shallow shipwreck to explore.

This cider batch sounds amazing and is bourbon barrel-aged. A traditional English blend of 50% Dabinett, 25% Ellis Bitter, and 25% Bramley. The taste is described as clean oak and vanilla notes on the front, held beautifully together by the bittersweet apples, finishing with a bright, crisp apple flavor.

Whether you are a cider enthusiast, a local history buff, or just looking for a great Thursday night out downtown, this release party is free and open to everyone. Come try the new sanctuary cider, grab a bottle to go, and raise a glass to Alpena’s history! 

 Learn more about the history of William H. Rounds.