Indigeny Reserve

14679 Summers Lane, 10 mi. from town, (209) 743-3208 (533-9463). M-W 10am-4pm, Thur-Sun 10am-5pm.

Located a few miles from town, the Indigeny Reserve ciderworks and distillery is on a rural 160-acre property planted with Tuolumne County’s oldest organic apple orchards (the reserve has more than 25,000 apple trees and 51-plus varieties). A covered bridge that dates to the 1930s leads in to the parking lot.

covered bridge at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora, California

In the tasting room, sample small-batch hard ciders (my favorite was the blackberry), triple-distilled infused vodkas (don’t miss the apricot), and brandies.

tasting room at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora, California

flavored vodka tasting at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora, California

A free tour of the double copper-pot distillery takes you through the barrel room and informs about apple fermentation and more, and if you are here at the right time you can view the seasonal crush.

distillery tour at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora, California

Native American art at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora, California

The entire family is welcome to enjoy the self-guided trails, shaded picnic areas, and special events. The only place you can buy this cider is in the he gift shop, which is also worth a browse for its artisan food offerings--locally produced honey, olive oil, nuts, cooking sauces—as well as locally made products that include tasteful handmade jewelry and paintings.