Portland, Oregon – The city’s vibrant craft beverage scene has welcomed a new, uniquely themed establishment with the opening of Alchemy Cider’s taproom at 818 SE Ankeny Street. Officially opening its doors for regular hours on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, Alchemy Cider offers a distinct gothic-metal aesthetic, a departure from the often lighter, fruit-forward branding common in the cider industry.
Alchemy Cider is the brainchild of Kirk Evans, a seasoned industry veteran whose background spans both the beer and cider worlds. Evans’ journey into cider making was influenced by personal health reasons and a deep appreciation for the craft and tradition found in European beer cultures, particularly Belgian brews. His personal passion for dark metal music and art also heavily informs the brand’s unique, darker aesthetic, aiming to create a mystical and immersive experience for patrons.
“I was a huge Belgian and German beer aficionado in my early 20’s, which I think definitely comes into our brand,” Evans shared. “I intentionally wanted to build the branding for Alchemy as an homage to the tradition and reverence that both those countries have for their beer….cider is no different.”
Previously serving as the marketing director at Bauman’s Cider Co. and later as head cidermaker at 19 Acres Cider, Evans has brought his extensive experience to Alchemy Cider. The new taproom is situated in the former space of Brewery 26, a location that places it within a dynamic area of Southeast Portland, near other notable beverage establishments.
A Darkly Mystical Atmosphere
The taproom itself is a carefully curated space designed to evoke a sense of dark mystique. Drenched in a palette of black, gold, and emerald, the interior features moody illustrations, reupholstered antique church pews, gold sconces adorning tables, and distinctive wallpaper and wainscoting. This commitment to a cohesive gothic theme extends beyond mere decoration, aiming to create a complete sensory experience that aligns with the brand’s evocative imagery and packaging.
A Diverse Offering of Ciders, Beer, and Wine
Alchemy Cider’s taproom boasts an impressive selection, going beyond its own creations. While customers can sample the six flagship housemade ciders, including their “Tavern” style Eternal Apple, the venue also features 30 taps offering a rotating selection of local craft beers, wines, and guest ciders from producers Evans admires. The establishment also plans to offer cider-based cocktails and may pursue a full liquor license in the future, depending on neighborhood demand.
Portland’s Thriving Cider Landscape
The opening of Alchemy Cider marks another significant addition to Oregon’s already robust cider scene. Portland is increasingly recognized as a hub for innovative cider production, with establishments like Bauman’s Cider, La Familia Cider, and Schilling Cider House contributing to the city’s reputation. Alchemy Cider’s unique gothic theme and focus on creating an immersive environment further diversify the offerings available to Portland residents and visitors.
Evans’ vision for Alchemy Cider is to create approachable yet complex ciders that resonate with those who appreciate a distinctive brand narrative. By embracing a theme often overlooked in the beverage industry, Alchemy Cider aims to tap into a unique market sensibility, offering a new destination for those seeking an alternative experience within Portland’s thriving craft beverage culture. This news is a welcome development for fans of craft beverages looking for novel and engaging venues in the Pacific Northwest.
