West End Ciderhouse was born from a love of craft beverages and a passion for community, turning local apples and spirits into drinks meant to be shared.
ORIGINS
West End Ciderhouse began, like many dreams, over tall drinks. West End Ciderhouse opened in 2014 in a lovingly restored brick building on Athens’ west side, transforming a longtime neighborhood landmark into a vibrant cidery and taproom.
Known for apple-forward, unfiltered, preservative-free ciders made from Ohio-grown apples, the Ciderhouse combines handcrafted drinks with a welcoming space featuring exposed brick, a vintage bar, and a cozy, communal atmosphere.
Over the years, we're so happy to have become a local favorite, celebrated for seasonal cocktails, creative libations, and a commitment to locally sourced ingredients. By blending quality drinks with a relaxed, community-centered environment, West End Ciderhouse offers a distinctive destination for both residents and visitors looking to experience Athens’ craft beverage scene.
Our work is more than drinks—it’s about creating experiences. From hand-pressed Ohio apples to small-batch spirits, each cider and cocktail is crafted to highlight flavor, tradition, and creativity. Whether you’re gathering with friends in our taproom, exploring seasonal releases, or savoring a carefully curated cocktail, West End Ciderhouse is dedicated to bringing people together, one pour at a time.
OUR TEAM
Deanna Schwartz
Founder + Owner
Deanna is the heart and driving force behind West End Ciderhouse. From shaping the Ciderhouse’s vision to cultivating its welcoming atmosphere, she has played a central role in transforming the historic West End Tavern into a vibrant gathering place for the Athens community.
With a deep passion for local ingredients, creative beverages, and genuine hospitality, Deanna ensures every visit is warm, inviting, and memorable. Her leadership and hands-on approach have helped the Ciderhouse grow into a space where friends, neighbors, and visitors come together to enjoy exceptional cider, craft cocktails, and the spirit of community.
Kelly Sauber
Founder + Zymurgist
Kelly began fermenting in 1991 as a homebrewer, expanding into cider, mead, wine, and spirits. After formal training at the Siebel Institute, he brewed at several Ohio breweries, including 12 years as head brewer at Marietta Brewing Company, where his Pawpaw Wheat became a local favorite.
In 2010, he shifted his focus to local farmers and ingredients, founding Dancing Tree Distilling (now West End Distillery). Today, he brings that same dedication to craft and local sourcing to his cidermaking, blending decades of experience with a deep love for place and community.
Shen Cook
Cider maker/Cellar master
Shen is an integral part of the team at West End Ciderhouse. With deep roots in the Athens community and a passion for craft fermentation and hospitality, Shen brings quality spirits and cocktails from concept to glass.
Shen’s hands‑on approach and commitment to local craft culture help shape the experience at the Ciderhouse, where every drink reflects a balance of tradition, innovation, and community spirit. Whether assisting behind the bar or supporting production, Shen plays an important role in delivering the thoughtful, handcrafted beverages our guests love.