Ash & Elm Cider Co. Named a Top National Cidery
The Indianapolis business earned a spot on a USA TODAY best-of list for the second consecutive year.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Ash & Elm Cider Co. has been ranked among the 10 best cideries in the nation by USA TODAY. The Indianapolis-based company secured the 10th spot on the list, marking its second year as a featured honoree.
Why it matters
The recognition highlights the cidery for its inventive flavor profiles and food quality. Despite this national accolade, the business has announced that its restaurant-bar will close by the end of 2026.
Ash & Elm achieved a 10th-place ranking in 2026, following a 5th-place finish in 2025. The company currently manages distribution networks across more than 40 states.
The players
Ash & Elm Cider Co.
This Indianapolis-based business produces artisanal cider and operates a restaurant-bar with distribution reaching over 40 states.
Aaron and Andréa Homoya
They are the founders who established the cider production and restaurant enterprise in 2016.
The details
Industry experts nominated the cidery, with a four-week public voting period informing the final selection by editors. Founded in 2016, the company produces cider and operates an Indianapolis restaurant-bar that remains slated for closure at the end of 2026.
Timeline
Aaron and Andréa Homoya founded the company in summer 2016.
The business placed fifth in national rankings during 2025.
The business placed tenth in national rankings during 2026.
The Indianapolis restaurant-bar is scheduled to close by the end of 2026.
Market Landscape
The USA TODAY 10Best cideries list serves as a benchmark for consumer interest and brand prestige in the craft alcohol sector. Consistent placement on such lists helps companies maintain competitive visibility while navigating broader industry trends toward consolidation.
Customers can continue to visit the Indianapolis restaurant-bar for approximately another year before its final closure. While the business plans to wind down its local physical footprint, it maintains widespread product distribution across 40 states.
The takeaway
Even award-winning establishments face difficult decisions regarding their long-term operational sustainability. Consumers should prioritize visiting popular local venues while they remain open as the business landscape continues to evolve.
Further reading
For more news regarding local business changes, visit Indianapolis Openings & Closings.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Indystar.
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