May 15, 2019

Northern Virginia’s first cidery to open in Alexandria, source local apples

Virginia’s Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, the Honorable Bettina K. Ring, announced May 12 that Lost Boy Cider, a soon-to-open Alexandria business, will receive an Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) program grant. The announcement, made on behalf of Governor Ralph Northam, outlines the details of the first Virginia Farm Winery-licensed production facility in the region. Lost Boy Cider will produce a variety of traditional and innovative hard ciders, sourcing nearly 100% Virginia-grown apples.

The City of Alexandria and the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership (AEDP) worked with the Governor and his administration to secure resources that will result in the opening of Northern Virginia’s first cidery in Alexandria. AEDP identified the AFID program as a tool that will help launch the cidery, working with the company and the Commonwealth to facilitate the grant application process. AEDP also assisted the company with site selection, helping Lost Boy select a warehouse space in the Carlyle neighborhood of the City. Today’s announcement is an example of the City and AEDP’s commitment to attracting and retaining businesses across various industries to grow Alexandria’s economy.

With Port City Brewing just a few miles down the road, and the arrival of Aslin Beer Company this summer, the cidery is well positioned to be the perfect addition to the growing local craft beverage scene, helping draw in tourists and residents to enjoy authentic Virginia made beverages.

The first apple orchard in Alexandria

Lost Boy Cider is planting more than just their cidery in the Carlyle neighborhood; they will also have an apple orchard on location adjacent to the tasting room. Owner Tristan Wright planted several semi-dwarf golden delicious varieties from Stark Brothers, a Mississippi Delta-based company that provides heritage apple varieties. The self-pollinating and hearty apple trees will reach approximately nine feet in height when fully grown and will produce roughly 80 gallons of juice. Lost Boy Cider club members will receive first taste from the crop when available. The inaugural machinery free harvest for the trees will take place in Fall 2020.

For the Governor’s announcement, click here.