Loxtonia Cider : A World-Class Apple Cidery in the Heart of Ceres.

If you’ve been following my journey through the Western Cape, you’ll know how much I love discovering food and drink experiences that feel rooted, thoughtful, and just a little bit magical. The kind of places that don’t just serve up a meal or a drink - they serve up a story. I recently stumbled upon a refreshingly delicious new favorite nestled in the fertile valley of Ceres, Loxtonia Cider.

Let me start by saying: I wasn’t a cider drinker at all. But after visiting Loxtonia Cidery, let’s just say I left with a new appreciation (and a few bottles in hand). This isn’t your average cider - it’s crisp, complex, and crafted with so much intention and love. It’s also where nature, flavour, and sustainability meet in the most beautiful way. And yes, their sparkling apple wine? Obsessed is an understatement. So, let me take you on a little journey through orchards, flavour, and that first sip that made me say, “Wow, this is something else.”

From Orchard to Bottle: The Story Behind Loxtonia

Loxtonia Cider is a family-owned cidery based in Ceres, where the Whitfield family has been growing apples for generations. The idea to turn their homegrown fruit into premium cider came from their deep connection to the land - and a desire to create something truly natural, honest, and delicious. Their philosophy is simple: Orchard to bottle. That means no concentrates, no additives, and no imported juice. Just fresh-pressed apples grown right there on their farm. Every cider you taste is the direct result of Ceres’ incredible terroir which is rich soils, pure mountain water, and cool high-altitude air that gives the apples their signature crispness and depth. It’s that respect for the land and commitment to craft that you taste in every pour.

The Ciders – A Delicious Line-Up of Orchard-Inspired Goodness

One of the things I love most about Loxtonia is the variety. Each cider has its own character, thanks to the different types of apples they grow, from tart Granny Smiths to golden, aromatic Golden Delicious.

Here are a few highlights from my tasting (yes, I tasted them all, for research purposes):

Crisp Apple - Their flagship classic. Clean, refreshing, and so easy to love.

Blush Apple - A soft pink cider with floral notes and a delicate berry finish. Pretty, playful, and dangerously drinkable.

Loxtonia Brut MTC - One of my top pick. Dry, bubbly, and beautifully balanced. (A must-try for sparkling wine lovers).

Stone Fruit Apple - Apples meet peaches and nectarines in this dreamy, summery blend.

African Sundowner - Rich, golden, and bold. A deeper flavour profile perfect for pairing with roast pork or spicy dishes.

Pale Amber Apple Cider - Smooth, rounded, and slightly toasty with subtle hints of caramel and ripe apple.

Cherry Flavoured Apple Cider - Vibrant, juicy, and slightly tart with a deep ruby hue.

Every cider is gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and made without preservatives. It’s clean, it’s natural, and it’s incredibly food-friendly.

The Sparkling Apple Wine You Need to Try

Now, let me introduce you to the real showstopper – Loxtonia Brut MTC. This isn’t your regular bubbly. This is a honey-coloured Brut Méthode Traditionelle Cider (MTC) that exudes a profusion of fine bubbles, apple brulée, vanilla, and roasted plum. It’s dry, elegant, beautifully balanced, and honestly feels like the apple-forward cousin of a fine Prosecco or Champagne. And here’s the kicker - Loxtonia is proudly the first producer of apple sparkling wine in South Africa, setting a whole new standard for innovation in the local cider scene. This isn’t just a delicious drink; it’s a milestone moment for South African craft beverages. Crafted from a blend of carefully hand-selected apples with a persistent finish, this Brut MTC is pure sophistication in a glass. As someone who’s constantly thinking about food pairing, this sparkling apple wine opens up a whole new world. It’s the kind of drink that works beautifully with cheese boards, grilled chicken, seafood, or even a buttery apple tart. Slightly effervescent with clean acidity and a hint of natural sweetness, it lifts flavours rather than overpowering them. If you’re a wine lover looking for something new, this is your sign. It’s festive without being fussy, fun without being sweet, and absolutely perfect for summer brunches, sundowner picnics, or stylish celebrations.

Pro tip: Serve it chilled in a flute or wine glass with a slice of apple for a simple, elegant twist.

Cider + Food: Perfect Pairings & Kitchen Inspiration

What surprised me most about the tasting was how versatile these ciders are for food pairing and prepping. As someone who lives and breathes flavour combinations, I immediately started dreaming up ways to cook with and serve these ciders.

Crisp Apple works like a dream with grilled chicken, pork chops, or something spicy like peri-peri prawns.

Stone Fruit Apple: Try it with a cheese soufflé or a peach crumble for a harmonious, flavour-layered moment.

Blush Apple is perfect with berry desserts, roast duck, or even a summer salad with strawberries and feta.

Loxtonia Brut Apple pairs beautifully with salty cheeses, charcuterie, or smoked salmon.

Pale Amber Apple Cider: This well-balanced cider pairs beautifully with roast chicken, aged cheddar, or hearty autumn-inspired dishes like butternut risotto or pork belly and Gammon roast.

Cherry Flavoured Apple Cider: This cider brings a playful burst of cherry that’s perfectly balanced by crisp apple notes, making it ideal for pairing with duck, charcuterie, or dark chocolate desserts.

Loxtonia Cider unlocks new and endless creativity In the kitchen. Think cider-glazed carrots, cider-brined meats, or a splash in Vinaigrettes for a fruity twist.

Nature, Beauty & That Ceres Valley Charm

Visiting Loxtonia is more than just a tasting, it’s a serene little escape. The farm is nestled in the Ceres Valley, with stunning mountain views, rolling apple orchards, and crisp fresh air that immediately makes you slow down and breathe a little deeper.

Their tasting area is relaxed and beautifully designed in a way where you can sit, sip, and soak up the views. There’s space for picnics, photo ops in the orchards, and plenty of spots to just enjoy nature and a good drink. It’s perfect for couples, friend groups, families with kids, and solo travellers who just want to unwind with a cider in hand.

Three Fun Facts You’ll Love to Drop at Your Next Picnic

1. Loxtonia Cidery is proudly the first producer of apple sparkling wine in South Africa, setting a new standard for local innovation in craft cider..

2. Loxtonia is eco-conscious from tree to tap - They use solar power, recycle apple waste, and work toward a zero-waste, carbon-neutral future. So your cider? Totally guilt-free.

3. All Loxtonia ciders are made on-site - Yes, Nothing is outsourced! Every step, from apple picking to bottling, happens right on the farm under the family’s watchful eye.

My First Cider Tasting – And Why I’m a Convert Now

I went in with zero expectations. I came out impressed, refreshed, educated and genuinely converted. The tasting was a delight from start to finish. Every cider had its own story, its own flavour profile, and not a single one felt overly sweet or artificial. The Brut Apple, especially, felt refined and restaurant-worthy. I could see it being poured at fancy events or just shared between friends at sunset. The staff was incredibly warm and welcoming, guiding me through the flight with enthusiasm and loads of local knowledge.

Bottom line: If you think you don’t like cider, you just haven’t had Loxtonia yet.

Why You Need to Visit Loxtonia Cider

If you’re a lover of craft drinks, sustainability, natural beauty, or simply good vibes, Loxtonia should be firmly on your radar. Whether you’re road-tripping through the Western Cape, spending a weekend in Ceres, or just looking for a relaxing outing that ends with something delicious in hand, I’m happy to confirm, this is it! It’s the kind of place where the drinks are handcrafted, the views are soul-soothing, and the experience lingers with you long after you leave.

What Else to Do in Ceres

While Loxtonia is a highlight, Ceres offers plenty of additional experiences for visitors looking to spend a day or weekend in the area. Here are the Top Five (5) Things to do in Ceres:

Nature & Outdoor Activities:

• Matroosberg Nature Reserve - Go hiking, 4x4 trailing, or snow-seeking in winter.

• Witzenberg Valley - Enjoy scenic drives, mountain biking, and bird watching in the surrounding region.

• Ceres Zip Slide Adventures - An adrenaline-pumping way to see the valley from above.

  
  

Fruit Farm Stalls & Markets:

• Stop at local farm stalls offering fresh seasonal produce, jams, preserves, and dried fruits.During harvest season (typically late summer to autumn), many farms offer “pick-your-own” experiences.

Wine Tasting:

• Explore local wine estates in the nearby Wolseley and Tulbagh regions, only a short drive from Ceres. Many wine farms offer pairings, platters, and beautiful garden settings for relaxed afternoons.

Useful Information to plan your visit:

Location: Ezelfontein Farm, Ceres, Western Cape 6835.

Tastings: Walk-ins welcome, but booking ahead recommended for groups

Perfect For: Couples, foodies, families, wine-lovers, and cider-curious adventurers

Opening Hours: Mon–Tue closed , Wed - Thurs: 9am -4pm, Fri - Sat - 11am - 6pm, Sun: 11am -3pm

Share your Experience!

Have you visited or tried Loxtonia Cider? I’d love to hear what you think! Drop a comment below and let’s swap tasting notes.

For more delicious travel stops, hidden gems, and food-driven adventures across South Africa, subscribe and follow me here on: theehungrychef.com or find me on Instagram and YouTube @theehungrychef . Until the next bite (or sip), Bon Appétit