NEWSLETTER
Queensbury, N.Y. — Extreme Heights Cidery, sister brand of Adirondack Winery, is thrilled to announce the release of Whiteface Maple Bourbon Cider, the latest in a lineup of now seven Extreme Heights Hard Cider varieties. Named after Whiteface Mountain, one of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks, this winter flavor is refreshing and crisp, and ready to keep you cozy all season long.
Inspired by the extraordinary achievement of Ella Pardy, daughter of owners Sasha and Mike Pardy, Extreme Heights Cidery celebrates her remarkable journey of becoming an Adirondack 46er at just 15 years old! Ella summited all 46 High Peaks in only five weeks through YMCA Camp Chingachgook, covering roughly 295 miles and ascending 70,000 feet.
Extreme Heights launched in Fall 2023 with Mt. Marcy (Original), Haystack (Pumpkin Pie), and Algonquin (Cranberry Ginger), followed by the popular additions of Esther (Hibiscus Lime) and Skylight (Orange Passion Fruit), and, most recently, Cascade (Rosé Infused).
Now, Whiteface joins the family — a maple bourbon hard cider crafted from 100% New York apples! The cider blends crisp apple with the deep, caramel sweetness of maple and the warm, oaky finish of bourbon barrel aging. At each sip, a light sweetness lingers from the maple, and gentle, spirit-driven heat remains from the bourbon.
“With our Maple Bourbon Cider, we wanted to create a beverage that's warmth and indulgence soothes your soul on a cold winter's night,” said Courtney Rankin, Head Winemaker at Adirondack Winery. “By aging our crisp, fruit forward cider in charred bourbon barrels and finishing it with a touch of Grade A maple syrup, we’ve created a complex, full-bodied experience that moves beyond traditional seasonal offerings. Aging in bourbon barrels from High Peaks Distilling, using maple syrup sourced from one of our own winery staff, and fermenting our cider from New York apples, it's not just a drink; it's a celebration of craftsmanship.”
“We’re thrilled to add this cider to our lineup and to collaborate with High Peaks Distilling and our Cellar Assistant, Jon Hart’s family’s maple farm. It’s incredibly important to us to collaborate with other local businesses.” said Sasha Pardy, Co-Owner and President of Adirondack Winery. “Whiteface’s updated label reflects what inspired it — Ella skiing down Whiteface Mountain, a tradition she proudly continues every ski season.”
Extreme Heights Cidery’s hard ciders are handcrafted from New York State apples at the Adirondack Winery Winemaking Facility in Queensbury. Visitors can try Whiteface along with the entire cider lineup (seasonal items change) at Adirondack Winery’s two locations: 285 Canada Street, Lake George, and 395 Big Bay Road, Queensbury. Customers can enjoy Extreme Heights Cider Flights or take home their favorites in convenient canned 4-packs. Each of the high peaks cider’s have their own landing page with gorgeous images and stories of what each mountain is like to hike!
About Adirondack Winery
Founded by Sasha & Michael Pardy in 2008, Adirondack Winery has become one of New York’s most celebrated wineries, known for crafting over 35 fruit-infused and traditional wines sourced from New York State grapes. In 2023, the Pardy family expanded their offerings with Extreme Heights Cidery, featuring both traditional and flavored hard ciders made from local apples.
Adirondack Winery’s Lake George Tasting Room (285 Canada Street) remains a regional favorite and was voted the 2025 Post Star’s Best of Region for Best Lake George Store. The Queensbury Tasting Room (395 Big Bay Road) offers tours, tastings, and stunning private event spaces.
Adirondack Winery wines are available at over 450 New York liquor stores or online at adkwinery.com. Learn more about Extreme Heights Cidery at extremeheightscider.com.
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