Looking for a unique and refreshing experience as a cider lover? Look no further than 2 Fools Cider, a cidery based in Naperville, that’s dedicated to creating a fun and engaging atmosphere for customers to enjoy innovative and bold ciders. In this blog post, we’ll explore the story behind 2 Fools Cider, their standout ciders, the tasting experience, the people behind the brand, nearby attractions, and more. So, join us as we dive into the world of 2 Fools Cider and embrace the folly of life.
As a cider enthusiast, it’s always exciting to discover a brand that takes risks, experiments with flavors, and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of cider. 2 Fools Cider is a brand that embodies this spirit of adventure and folly. From their brewing process to their commitment to pursuing passions, this cidery stands out in the crowded world of craft cider.
Throughout this blog post, we’ll delve into the story of how 2 Fools Cider came to be, their unique and flavorful ciders, the fun and engaging tasting experience, the people behind the brand, and the nearby attractions in Naperville’s cider scene. So, get ready to discover a brand that’s all about embracing the folly of life and pursuing passions.
Embracing the Folly of Life
At the heart of 2 Fools Cider lies a passion for living life to the fullest and embracing the joys of the world. This cidery was founded by two friends, Monte Summers and Jeremy Smith, who shared a love of cider and a desire to create a unique and engaging experience for their customers.
Monte and Jeremy’s journey to creating 2 Fools Cider began at Oregon State University, where they met and studied the art of making cider. The two friends traveled through Michigan and began experimenting with their own recipes and brewing techniques.
Their experimentation paid off, and in 2016, 2 Fools Cider was born. Since then, the cidery has become a beloved destination for cider enthusiasts, locals, and tourists alike. Monte and Jeremy continue to innovate and create new and exciting flavors, all while embracing the folly of life and pursuing their passions.
Standout Ciders: Bold Flavors and Unique Combinations
One of the hallmarks of 2 Fools Cider is their commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of cider. From bold, complex flavors to unique combinations of ingredients, their ciders are a testament to the power of experimentation and creativity.
Some of their most popular ciders include:
Rosé – A dry, rosé-inspired cider made with tart Michigan cherry juice. Fruit style cider made in the tradition of the English with a slight sweetness, well balanced with a hint of citrus, apple, and blueberry.
Pinehopple – Refreshingly crisp and tart from the apples and citrusy from the mix of pineapple and hops.
Tart Cherry – This unique cider combines a dry cider base with tart Michigan cherry juice. Pouring a lovely shade of red, this snappy cider features an unexpectedly creamy mouthfeel. A refreshing departure from sweeter fruited cider and a cider that fans of sour beer will love.
Dry – This dry cider delivers as promised, recalling the great traditional ciders of England. The nose is fresh and bright with notes of green apple skin. Its lively effervescence accentuates a lovely floral finish.
In addition to their flagship ciders, 2 Fools Cider also offers a rotating selection of seasonal and experimental ciders, so there’s always something new and exciting to try. Some of the standouts from the past include:
Apple Sauced – coming in at a whopping 10%, this seasonal cider is made with Michigan Heritage apples and has the aroma and taste of freshly made apple sauce. There have been several variations of this cider too, including Strawberry Sauced and Raspberry Sauced.
Pumpkin Spiced – this fall seasonal cider has all the spices, but none of the pumpkin. It’s a dry spiced cider with cinnamon, all spice, cloves and nutmeg.
Cider Royale – a collaboration with Miskatonic Brewery, this dark raspberry cider is one of the two components. The other, a black raspberry hard cider, could be combined to make a “black velvet cocktail”.
Tasting Room and Events
The tasting room is the heart of the 2 Fools Cider operation. This section will focus on the atmosphere and events that make the tasting room a popular destination.
Atmosphere
The 2 Fools Cider tasting room is a cozy and welcoming space with rustic decor and a friendly vibe. The walls are adorned with photos and memorabilia from the cider-making process, adding to the charm of the space. With plenty of seating options both indoors and outdoors, visitors can enjoy a flight of ciders while taking in the relaxing ambiance.
Events
2 Fools Cider hosts a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from live music performances to food trucks and cider releases. The tasting room also regularly hosts trivia nights and game tournaments, making it a fun spot for locals to gather and socialize.
With a diverse range of events and a charming atmosphere, 2 Fools Cider is a must-visit destination for cider lovers and those looking for a fun and relaxing outing.
Private Events
For those looking for a unique and memorable event space, 2 Fools Cider offers private event rentals. The tasting room and outdoor patio can accommodate groups of up to 100 people, making it a great option for birthday parties, corporate events, and wedding receptions. With customizable catering options and a dedicated event staff, 2 Fools Cider provides a seamless and enjoyable event experience.
From intimate gatherings to large-scale celebrations, 2 Fools Cider’s tasting room is a versatile and enjoyable event space for any occasion.
2 Fools Cider’s New Home
After several years of operating out of a small industrial space in Naperville, 2 Fools Cider recently made a move to a new, larger building less than a mile away. The new location offers more space for production, storage, and a larger taproom for visitors to enjoy.
The New Building
The new building is located just a short drive from their previous location. The space is approximately four times the size and includes a large production area, a spacious taproom, and a game room with arcade games, dart boards and a shuffleboard table.
The Old Building
After moving to the new space, a new non-alcoholic brewery opened in the space. Go Brewing took over the building and expanded to a nearby unit. After a large remodel, the new space includes an expanded taproom area and a large patio.
What to Expect at the New Location
Visitors to the new location can expect the same great selection of ciders that 2 Fools is known for, as well as a few new surprises. The taproom is huge, with a variety of seating options and a ton of space for large groups.
Why the Move Was Necessary
The move to the new building was necessary to accommodate 2 Fools Cider’s growing business. As the popularity of their ciders grew, the small space they were operating out of was no longer sufficient. The new location provides more room for production and storage, as well as a larger taproom to accommodate more visitors.
The move to the new building marks an exciting new chapter for 2 Fools Cider. With more space, a beautiful new location, and the same great ciders they’re known for, there’s never been a better time to visit and raise a glass to the fools who make it all possible.
Nearby Attractions
2 Fools Cider is located in a charming town with plenty of attractions to explore. This section will highlight some of the nearby places visitors can check out while in the area.
Historic Downtown Naperville
Just a short drive from 2 Fools Cider, the historic downtown area of Naperville offers a variety of shopping and dining options. Visitors can stroll along the Riverwalk, take in the historic architecture, and explore the numerous boutiques and restaurants in the area.
DuPage Children’s Museum
Families with young children will enjoy a visit to the DuPage Children’s Museum, located just a few miles from 2 Fools Cider. The museum features interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage and educate children of all ages.
For those looking to explore the natural beauty of the area, there are also plenty of outdoor attractions nearby.
Morton Arboretum
Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to the Morton Arboretum, a 1,700-acre outdoor space featuring a variety of gardens and tree collections. Visitors can take a guided tour, hike the numerous trails, or attend one of the many events and workshops offered throughout the year.
Naperville Riverwalk
The Naperville Riverwalk is a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. The mile-long path along the DuPage River features beautiful landscaping, fountains, and outdoor art installations. Visitors can also rent paddle boats and canoes for a fun and unique experience on the river.
With a variety of nearby attractions, visitors to 2 Fools Cider can easily make a day of exploring the area.
Overall, 2 Fools Cider is not only a great destination for cider lovers, but also for those looking to experience the charm and attractions of the surrounding area.
FAQ
What types of cider does 2 Fools offer?
2 Fools Cider offers a variety of ciders, including dry, semi-sweet, and sweet options. They also offer seasonal flavors and limited-edition releases.
Do they offer food at the cidery?
While 2 Fools Cider does not have a kitchen, they often partner with local food trucks and vendors to offer a variety of food options for visitors. Guests are also welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic on the grounds.
Can visitors bring their pets to the cidery?
Yes, 2 Fools Cider is pet-friendly. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the grounds and in the outdoor seating area. However, pets must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
Is 2 Fools Cider open year-round?
2 Fools Cider is open year-round, but their hours vary by season. It’s always a good idea to check their website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation.
Can visitors purchase cider to take home?
Yes, visitors can purchase cider to take home. 2 Fools Cider offers a variety of cans, as well as crowlers of their draft offerings. They also offer online ordering and shipping for those who want to enjoy their cider from the comfort of home.
These are just a few of the common questions visitors have about 2 Fools Cider. If you have any other questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to their friendly staff.
Raise a Glass to 2 Fools Cider
In conclusion, 2 Fools Cider is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves cider or is looking for a fun and unique experience in the Naperville area. With a variety of delicious ciders, a charming setting, and nearby attractions to explore, 2 Fools Cider offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a cider aficionado or a casual drinker, a visit to 2 Fools Cider is sure to be a memorable experience. So, grab a glass, raise it to 2 Fools, and enjoy the delicious taste of their handcrafted ciders.
