New ‘Rainbow Seeker’ Hard Cider Supports LGBTQ Equality (With a Hint of Pineapple and Sage)
Rainbow Seeker is the first installment of the “Kinder Cider Series” by Blake’s Hard Cider, a collection of drinks that aims to bring awareness to social and environmental issues directly impacting the company’s small farm community.
The tropical cider features a blend of Michigan-grown apples infused with pineapple and a hint of sage. But the sweetest thing about the hard cider: proceeds will fund a $40,000 direct donation to advance civil rights and equality programs spearheaded by the Human Rights Campaign. (Head here for more info about how you can donate.)
“Blake’s is a family-owned-and-run business, and we’re passionate about bringing awareness to issues that impact our community and our customers,” says Andrew Blake, owner and founder of Blake’s Hard Cider. “We want people from all walks of life to feel confident with who they are and know they always have a place to call home with us. With the Kinder Cider Series, and Rainbow Seeker, we are standing up for what and who we believe in.”
Rainbow Seeker cider will officially flow from taps on Friday, April 27. And it arrives in stores in May across all 19 states that Blake’s Hard Cider distributes to.
But don’t worry, for those outside Blake’s distribution footprint, the Michigan-based cider company will partner with distributors, retailers, restaurants and bars across the country to host events during June for Pride Month and in the fall for National Coming Out Day. So keep an eye out for them!
“We are grateful to Andrew and the Blake’s Hard Cider team for their generous support of LGBTQ equality,” says HRC President Chad Griffin. “This is a fun concept that we can all embrace, yet it comes at a serious moment in time when we are working harder than ever to push back against anti-equality sentiment.”
Blake’s Hard Cider will produce 120,000 cans of Rainbow Seeker, and it will distribute them across 19 states. The cider will be sold in 12-ounce cans (in six-pack form) and on draft for the duration of the summer.
Blake’s Hard Cider Co., established in 2013, is currently the fastest-growing craft cider manufacturer in the United States, and the largest in the Midwest. The family farm where its products are manufactured is also one of the most visited attractions in the state, with more than half a million guests making their way out for cider and donuts each year. Sign us up!
