Cider company opens Omaha taproom

owner brews cider because of celiac diagnosis

"I just started making really dry, less sweet ciders in my basement, and it turns out that's what really what cider used to be like, a more traditional European way of doing it," Wood says.

One brewer used his diagnosis, turned it into a business, and expanded into Omaha with his first taproom in downtown Omaha.

Matt Wood said Saro Cider is a traditional spin on the beverage.

In a cozy spot tucked away near 10th and Pacific streets is Saro Cider. Its Omaha location opened back in August.

"We wanted to be part of downtown Omaha but not necessarily cater to tourists. We wanted to cater to people who live in Omaha," Wood said.

Getting into the cider business wasn't his plan.

"I was diagnosed as a celiac about 10 years ago," Wood said.

He said he felt left behind.

"I couldn't have beer anymore. Everybody likes beer, I would go out with friends and families at bars and really, my options were limited," Wood said.

CHI Registered Dietician Sarah Jerome said celiac disease impacts a person's digestive system and means they usually can't consume gluten.

"It's typically found in grains like wheat, barley, and rye, so it would be found in beverages like beer, any hoppy kind of beer, or really any beer in general," Jerome said.

Wood wracked his brain trying to figure out a solution.

"The ciders are the market was way too sweet," Wood said.

"I just started making really dry, less sweet ciders in my basement, and it turns out that's what really what cider used to be like, a more traditional European way of doing it," Wood said.

Saro Cider was born in 2017 in Lincoln. Wood brought down the sugar content, elevated the flavor and added inclusivity.

"For people that can't have gluten or wheat, going to a bar or restaurant is a very scary experience because they are worried about getting sick, and it doesn't end up being fun when there are not those kinds of options," Wood said.

Jerome agreed and said it can be overwhelming. She recommends anyone who is having digestive issues work with a dietician.

"Focus on, again, what can I eat and not so much what's being restricted from my diet now," Jerome said.

You can find Saro Cider all over Nebraska and South Dakota, and the company recently launched in California.