I’ve been reviewing non-alcoholic beer for a while but so far I hadn’t heard of a non-alcoholic cider—or in this case, perry—until now. Nashi Orchards, based on Vashon Island near Seattle, debuted a new NA perry (same as a cider, but made with pears instead of apples) that is the first in its “Hana” series of non-alcoholic offerings.

Details in the press release:

Nashi Orchards celebrates its 10th anniversary with the launch of their first ever, line of non-alcoholic beverages, the “Hana” series. The first release is a sparkling perry made from 100 percent Korean Giant Asian pear juice, with no added flavoring and 120 calories for a 250ml serving. It retails for $12 (750ml) and is now available online, at their Vashon Island location and select retailers in the Puget Sound area.

“We’ve long been passionate about creating delicious libations that highlight the true character of the apples and pears that we grow. We have accomplished this by not adding sugar or flavorings and focusing on single varietals, unique techniques, and unique blends. We applied this same approach to our first non-alcoholic offering” notes Jim Gerlach, perry maker and co-owner at Nashi Orchards “It’s elegant, clean flavor profile is ideal for simply sipping over ice with a squeeze of lemon.”

“The Korean Giant sparkling perry is surprising light and elegant with just the right amount of sweetness,” describes co-owner Cheryl Lubbert. The new beverage is first in the “Hana” series, with two additional non-alcoholic releases slated for later in the fall of 2022. “The low or no alcohol trend in beverage is great for those who are focused on wellness or drinking less alcohol,” notes Nashi co-owner Cheryl Lubbert. “However, the Hana series is crafted to be a great addition to cocktails and mocktails.”

Nashi recently expanded its production space and orchards, offering an ideal place to sample new releases and signature sips. A picnicker’s paradise, tasters find indoor and outdoor seating, a fire pit, lawn games, culinary provisions and a pastoral setting complete with their St. Croix sheep and a newly established orchard. In addition to the Korean Giant non-alcoholic perry, guests can enjoy a glass or tasting flight from a rotating lineup of six to seven dry perry and cider options and seasonal releases available only in the tasting room. Jim Gerlach recommends Hukari Asian Pear Perry or the Sakura Ridge Pippins Cider, the latter being the first bottling from Nashi’s recently purchased 22-arce, organic orchard and farm in Hood River, Oregon.

Open Saturdays and Sundays from 12 – 5 p.m. Nashi Orchards is located less than five miles from the (north-end) ferry at 16906 107th Ave SW, Vashon Island. A selection of perry and cider is also available for purchase at www.nashiorchards.com.

About Nashi Orchards

Established in 2011 on Vashon Island in Washington state, Nashi Orchards uses sustainable practices to grow the finest Asian and European pears and heirloom apples to handcraft award-winning hard cider and perry. New in 2022, Nashi Orchards has released the first in the Hana series of sparkling non-alcoholic perries, made with Korean Giant Asian Pears. Recently, Nashi Orchards opened a new production space that offers indoor and outdoor seating for tastings and a newly established orchard. Enjoy rustic vistas of pastures with a 1930’s era barn, the new orchard and meandering St Croix sheep while enjoying libations and the land. Nashi Orchards is about a 15-minute ferry ride from Seattle or Tacoma. For more information about Nashi Orchards, visit nashiorchards.com and on Instagram and Facebook.

Korean Giant Perry (made with Korean Giant Asian pear juice) is available online now for purchase.