Wassailing Wonders: Pacific Northwest Cideries Resurrect a Cherished Tradition

Reviving Medieval Merriment in Modern Orchards.

In the heart of the Pacific Northwest, a melody from the past echoes through the apple orchards. Here, a medieval English custom, wassailing, is experiencing a delightful revival spearheaded by local cider companies. This tradition, deeply rooted in agricultural history, is more than just a festive gathering; it’s a cultural revival that connects the community with its agrarian past.

Wassailing, from “waes hael,” which translates to “be well,” is a practice where people gather on cold winter nights around an apple tree. They sing, notably the classic “Love and joy come to you, and to you your wassail too,” while raising a toast to the orchard’s health. This custom, originating in medieval England, was believed to encourage a bountiful harvest by blessing the apple trees.

The wassail drink, historically a warm, spiced ale or mead sweetened with honey and seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg, was seen as a charm for good luck and fertility for the trees. Today, Pacific Northwest cideries are adding their flair to this tradition. They craft unique wassail beverages, infusing their finest apple ciders with contemporary flavors like cranberry, orange, and cloves. These modern twists on the traditional drink offer a refreshing and festive taste experience.

The region, a burgeoning center for cider production, has witnessed numerous orchards and cideries adopting this age-old practice. Cider producers are opening their doors wide, inviting the community to partake in the festivities. Visitors are not only treated to delightful wassail drinks but also participate in the traditional singing. They engage in the symbolic act of pouring cider onto the roots of apple trees, a gesture signifying fertility and abundance.

This resurgence of wassailing in the Pacific Northwest is more than a mere celebration. It’s a testament to the area’s rich agricultural legacy and the significance of community bonds. Whether you’re an aficionado of cider or just in search of a unique winter adventure, the wassailing events in the Pacific Northwest promise a blend of historical charm and a jubilant celebration of nature’s gifts. So, let’s lift our glasses, join in the song, and cheer for a prosperous and joyous New Year!