Lost Boy Cider Blog Post Fall 2025: Reflections, Growth & What’s Next

2025, like the last five years, was unpredictable. This blog post fall 2025 captures where we’ve been, what we’ve learned, and what’s ahead for Lost Boy Cider. The year began quietly with Dry January—a period that once felt like a calm reset but lately brings a wave of anxiety. The colder months are tough. Our space is great, but like many small craft producers, we face significant seasonality.

Each spring, I focus on building cash reserves with one goal in mind: survive the winter. Our slowdown starts now and runs through February. Still, it’s not all bad. We fill the season with events that bring energy, community, and life to the cidery.

Host Your Event at Lost Boy This Winter

Winter is the perfect time to bring people together, and our cidery is an ideal venue for private gatherings, corporate celebrations, and community events. We offer a semi-private space, flexible layouts, and the warmth of our cozy taproom atmosphere—plus, of course, great cider.

If you’re planning a holiday party, fundraiser, or team outing, we’d love to host you. Submit your request through our Lost Boy Cider Event Inquiry Form link below to get started. Booking early helps us secure your date and tailor the experience to your group.

https://www.lostboycider.com/events/#book-event

Our First Press and Fall 2025 Harvest

Ironically, winter is when the best apples arrive. Our first press since April happened in late September—a huge relief after watching the last few drops in the tanks. The first press is always lighter juice, a bit watery, not suited for all our ciders—certainly not Comeback Kid—but it’s still from Shenandoah, where the best apples on earth grow.

We continue to partner closely with the Glaize family in Winchester, a relationship that ensures consistent quality. They’ve given us access to orchards few cideries ever see, and that connection remains a cornerstone of our product excellence.

For more about our local partnerships, visit our About Us page or learn more about Virginia-grown apples — two great resources that connect you to the heart of our craft.

Seasonal Spotlight: Ice Ciders Are Here

We’re officially kicking off our Ice Cider season, one of the best parts of fall 2025. These dessert-style sipping ciders are rich, bold, and unforgettable.

Our lineup includes Cherry Chill, Blue Berry, and Orchard Blend—each showcasing depth and sweetness in a unique way. Visit our Shop page to grab yours before they’re gone.

Operational Wins: Labeling Machine Upgrade

A big operational win for 2025 was adding a labeling machine. The upfront expense was challenging, but it’s already improving our flexibility and cash flow. We can now package smaller or larger quantities of cider quickly, manage inventory more efficiently, and release new products in days instead of weeks.

This investment aligns with our long-term cashflow and sustainability strategy, helping us stay nimble while reducing production delays.

Tech and AI: The Tools That Keep Us Moving

This year also marked our full adoption of AI technology. From image creation to event management, email organization, and financial reporting, AI now powers nearly every part of my workflow. Tools like Zapier, Fyxer, SocialPilot, GeminiPro, Canva, GPTPro, Grok, and Claude have transformed how we operate.

While some may view AI cautiously, I see it as an ally. It hasn’t replaced our creative team—it’s empowered us to do more. Lost Boy continues to employ and collaborate with local artists and musicians. AI simply gives me the tools to operate at a higher level.

For more about our approach to innovation, check out this industry article on AI in craft beverages.

Looking Ahead: Growth, Sales, and New Seasonals

As we plan for 2026, our focus is on sustainability and expansion. We’ll continue our monthly release program and have two new seasonals in development that are already showing great promise.

I’m also hoping 2026 is the year we welcome our first sales representative—someone who can extend our reach into new bars, restaurants, and retailers throughout Virginia and D.C. One of my biggest frustrations is not seeing Lost Boy on more menus where I know it would shine. That will change.

And yes, before you ask—should we bring Gherkin back? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below or on Instagram.

Community and Team: The Heart of Lost Boy

Managing our events program personally this year has been a breath of fresh air. I’ve loved meeting vendors, customers, and partners face-to-face. It reminds me daily why this business matters.

And to my small but mighty team—thank you. Everyone has stepped up, filled in where needed, and done so without hesitation. Their dedication keeps the cidery running, even in the hardest months.

Final Thoughts: Fall 2025 in Review

As 2025 comes to a close, I’m grateful. We’ve learned, adapted, and found ways to thrive despite the headwinds. The fall 2025 blog post captures not just where we’ve been, but where we’re headed—stronger, leaner, and more intentional.

The year ahead looks bright. Thank you for continuing to support small, independent craft cider. You’re the reason we’re still pressing, pouring, and pushing forward.

See you soon,
Tristan