When: April 7th, 2023
Where: 522 Spielman Hwy, Burlington, CT 06103
Hogan’s Cider Mill was founded in 1912 by Patrick Hogan and was purchased by PGA golfer Chet Dunlop in 1992. As a result there is mini golf course next to the barn and a golf course where the Dunlop’s run the New England School of Golf.The cider mill has been making hard cider for over 30 years and sweet cider for over 100. When you step inside the building, you enter the shop stocked with cider to-go, local snacks like candy, and different knickknacks. The taproom is located on the second floor and looks exactly like you would imagine if you put a taproom on the second floor of a barn. The barn setting gives a nice authentic atmosphere for drinking hard cider.
Chris: I’d consider myself a cider fanatic, but I had never been to Hogan’s Cider Mill. I was very excited by their selection of cider and cider cocktails that are seasonally updated and tried to get as many as I could. My favorite was the Just Peachy Sangria which had a nice sweet peach flavor without being overpowering. I was a big fan of the Sweet Nectar made with honey and Strawberries and Cream ciders. The one thing I will say is the flavorings they use seem to leave a tangy flavor to everything. Also, all ciders are 12.5% so bring a designated driver even if you only plan to have a drink or two.
Nick: Chris and I stopped in here after we went to Clocktown. My favorite was the Lucky Penny but I also really liked the Sweet Nectar and the Just Peachy. I was very impressed with the Mill’s authenticity, they don’t use any preservatives which means that they bottle in season. You can tell a place is authentic when they serve your cider out of jugs and the tap room is covered in historical newspapers and farm items from the past decades. Authenticity does mean though that these ciders 12.5% is more like drinking wine than your typical cider, so drink responsibly.
Other Cool things:
- Mini golf
- Gift shop w/ local snacks
- Cider to go
- Craft beer available
What we drank:
Chris: Just Peachy Sangria (Sweet cider) 12.5% – 4.75 out of 5
Chris: Strawberries and Cream (Sweet cider) 12.5% – 4 out of 5
Chris: Sweet Nectar (Sweet cider) 12.5% – 4.25 out of 5
Nick: Lucky Penny (Sweet Cider) 12.5%- 4 out of 5
Nick: Peep Show(Sweet Cider) 12.5%- 3.75 out of 5
Brewing Persuasion: 4.5 out of 5
Brewing Persuasions 