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Austin Eastciders is an Austin, Texas-based craft beverage company that produces and distributes lower-sugar hard ciders and fruit-forward alcoholic drinks using traditional bittersweet apples. The organization generates revenue through the wholesale distribution of consumer packaged goods to retail stores and restaurants, alongside direct-to-consumer sales at its physical taprooms. In November 2023, the enterprise merged with regional producers Blake's Hard Cider and Avid Cider Co. to establish a collaborative corporate entity known as Blake's Beverage Company. This strategic consolidation created one of the top 10 largest cider producers in the United States, supported by a 1,000-acre orchard infrastructure in Michigan to facilitate national expansion. Following the merger, the brand consolidated its local retail footprint in December 2023 by closing its Barton Springs tasting room to focus on its primary Collaboratory facility. Austin Eastciders was founded in 2013 by Ed Gibson.
Austin Eastciders has raised $5.0M across 1 funding round.
Austin Eastciders has raised $5.0M in total across 1 funding round.
Austin Eastciders has raised $5.0M across 1 funding round. Most recently, it raised $5.0M Series U in October 2017.
| Date | Round | Lead Investors | Other Investors | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 1, 2017 | $5M Series U | — | Blueberry Ventures | Announced |
Austin Eastciders has raised $5.0M in total across 1 funding round.
Austin Eastciders's investors include Blueberry Ventures.
Austin Eastciders is not a technology company but a beverage company specializing in the production of premium hard ciders and spiked seltzers. Founded in 2013 and based in Austin, Texas, it crafts ciders using vintage bittersweet and bittersharp apple varieties, real Texas honey, and real fruit, emphasizing natural ingredients without artificial additives. The company serves consumers who enjoy flavorful, sessionable alcoholic beverages that are balanced and less sweet than typical ciders, aiming to revitalize America's love for cider with diverse and innovative flavors. Austin Eastciders has shown strong growth momentum, with revenues expected to reach around $54 million in 2024 and over $60 million in 2025, especially after merging with Blakes Hard Cider to form Blake's Beverage Company in 2023[1][2][3][4].
Austin Eastciders was founded in 2013, inspired by traditional English cider-making techniques but localized to Austin’s culture and palate. The founders focused on creating a cider that is less sweet and more complex by using bittersweet cider apples and white wine yeast to enhance effervescence and balance. Early traction came from building a loyal regional following and expanding distribution, supported by a new state-of-the-art facility in Southeast Austin to meet growing demand. The company’s evolution culminated in a 2023 merger with Blakes Hard Cider, broadening its national footprint and product portfolio[1][3].
Austin Eastciders rides the trend of consumers seeking craft, authentic, and less sweet alcoholic beverages with natural ingredients. The timing aligns with growing demand for premium hard ciders and spiked seltzers as alternatives to beer and sugary cocktails. Market forces favor brands that emphasize local culture, sustainability, and innovative flavors, all of which Austin Eastciders leverages. By merging with Blakes Hard Cider, it strengthens its position in the competitive cider market and influences the broader ecosystem by setting quality and authenticity standards[1][4].
Looking ahead, Austin Eastciders is poised to expand its national presence further, driven by continued innovation in flavor profiles and product lines like spiked agua frescas. Trends such as increased consumer preference for natural, craft beverages and healthier alcoholic options will shape its growth. The company’s influence may grow as it helps define the premium cider category and inspires other beverage brands to focus on authenticity and regional identity. Its integration into Blake's Beverage Company suggests a strategic focus on scaling while maintaining distinct brand personalities[1][4][6].
