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Secrets Of Hudson Valley’s Emerald Valley Apple Cider Pressing Mills

Published:

by Mamie Rhinehart

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Have you ever wondered where to find the best apple cider in Hudson Valley? This region is famous for its apple cider pressing mills. These mills offer a unique experience, blending tradition with taste. Imagine walking through orchards, picking fresh apples, and watching them transform into delicious cider. Many of these places also offer tours, tastings, and even family-friendly activities. Whether you're a local or just visiting, exploring these cider mills can be a delightful way to spend a day. Ready to sip on some of the finest cider Hudson Valley has to offer? Let's dive into the best spots!

Secrets of Hudson Valley's Emerald Valley Apple Cider Pressing Mills

Hudson Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and rich history, hides some of the best apple cider pressing mills. These mills not only produce delicious cider but also offer a glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage. Let's uncover some of these hidden gems.

1. Masker Orchards

Masker Orchards in Warwick is a family-friendly destination. With over 200 acres of apple trees, visitors can pick their own apples and watch the cider pressing process. The orchard has been around since 1913, making it a staple in the community.

Highlights:

  • Pick-your-own apples
  • Freshly pressed cider
  • Family activities

2. Angry Orchard

Angry Orchard in Walden offers a unique experience. Known for its hard cider, this mill provides tours of its state-of-the-art facility. Visitors can sample various ciders and learn about the fermentation process.

Highlights:

  • Hard cider tastings
  • Guided tours
  • Beautiful orchard views

3. Wilklow Orchards

Wilklow Orchards in Highland is a small, family-run farm. They focus on sustainable farming practices and produce some of the best apple cider in the region. The farm stand also offers homemade pies and other treats.

Highlights:

  • Sustainable farming
  • Fresh cider and baked goods
  • Scenic farm stand

4. Fishkill Farms

Fishkill Farms in Hopewell Junction combines tradition with innovation. This farm has been in operation since 1913 and offers organic apple picking. Their cider is made using a blend of heirloom apple varieties.

Highlights:

  • Organic apple picking
  • Heirloom apple cider
  • Farm-to-table café

5. Wright's Farm

Wright's Farm in Gardiner is a fourth-generation family farm. They offer a variety of apple products, including cider, donuts, and pies. The farm also hosts seasonal events, making it a great spot for a day trip.

Highlights:

  • Fresh apple cider
  • Seasonal events
  • Delicious apple donuts

6. Jenkins-Lueken Orchards

Jenkins-Lueken Orchards in New Paltz is known for its diverse apple varieties. They press their own cider and offer a farm stand with fresh produce. The orchard's scenic views of the Shawangunk Ridge are a bonus.

Highlights:

  • Diverse apple varieties
  • Freshly pressed cider
  • Scenic views

7. Lawrence Farms Orchards

Lawrence Farms Orchards in Newburgh is a family-owned farm offering a variety of fruits and vegetables. Their apple cider is a must-try, and the farm also features a charming little village for kids to explore.

Highlights:

  • Variety of produce
  • Fresh apple cider
  • Kid-friendly activities

8. Mead Orchards

Mead Orchards in Tivoli offers a peaceful, rustic experience. This farm has been family-owned since 1916 and provides a wide range of apple varieties. Their cider is made using traditional methods, ensuring a rich, authentic flavor.

Highlights:

  • Traditional cider pressing
  • Wide range of apples
  • Rustic farm experience

9. Rose Hill Farm

Rose Hill Farm in Red Hook is a historic farm dating back to 1798. They offer organic apple picking and produce small-batch cider. The farm also hosts events like yoga classes and farm dinners.

Highlights:

  • Organic apple picking
  • Small-batch cider
  • Unique farm events

10. Greig Farm

Greig Farm in Red Hook offers a mix of old and new. They have been farming since 1942 and provide a variety of apple products. The farm also features a market with local goods and a café serving farm-fresh meals.

Highlights:

  • Variety of apple products
  • Local market
  • Farm-fresh café

11. Samascott Orchards

Samascott Orchards in Kinderhook is a family-run farm with a wide range of apple varieties. They offer pick-your-own apples and freshly pressed cider. The farm stand also sells homemade jams and other goodies.

Highlights:

  • Pick-your-own apples
  • Fresh cider
  • Homemade jams

12. Indian Ladder Farms

Indian Ladder Farms in Altamont combines history with modern amenities. Established in 1916, the farm offers apple picking, cider pressing, and a brewery. Visitors can enjoy a pint of hard cider while taking in the scenic views.

Highlights:

  • Apple picking
  • Cider pressing
  • On-site brewery

13. Golden Harvest Farms

Golden Harvest Farms in Valatie is known for its award-winning apple cider. The farm also has a distillery producing apple-based spirits. Their farm stand offers a variety of fresh produce and baked goods.

Highlights:

  • Award-winning cider
  • Apple-based spirits
  • Fresh produce and baked goods

14. Minard's Family Farm

Minard's Family Farm in Clintondale offers a fun, family-friendly experience. They have a wide range of apple varieties and produce fresh cider. The farm also features a corn maze, hayrides, and other seasonal activities.

Highlights:

  • Family-friendly activities
  • Fresh apple cider
  • Seasonal events

15. Stone Ridge Orchard

Stone Ridge Orchard in Stone Ridge is a historic farm with a focus on sustainability. They offer organic apple picking and produce small-batch cider. The farm also hosts events like farm-to-table dinners and live music.

Highlights:

  • Organic apple picking
  • Small-batch cider
  • Farm events

16. Westwind Orchard

Westwind Orchard in Accord is a certified organic farm. They offer apple picking, fresh cider, and a variety of farm-made products. The orchard also features a wood-fired pizza oven, making it a perfect spot for a picnic.

Highlights:

  • Certified organic
  • Fresh cider
  • Wood-fired pizza

17. Breezy Hill Orchard

Breezy Hill Orchard in Staatsburg is known for its heirloom apple varieties. They produce artisanal cider and offer a farm stand with fresh produce. The orchard also participates in local farmers' markets.

Highlights:

  • Heirloom apples
  • Artisanal cider
  • Farmers' market participation

Savoring Hudson Valley's Apple Cider Mills

Hudson Valley's apple cider pressing mills offer a unique experience. Visiting these mills, you get to see the cider-making process up close. The fresh, crisp taste of locally made cider is unmatched. Each mill has its own charm, from rustic settings to modern facilities. The region's rich history in apple farming adds depth to every visit. Whether you're sampling cider, picking apples, or enjoying a hayride, there's something for everyone. These mills are more than just places to buy cider; they're a celebration of community and tradition. Next time you're in Hudson Valley, make sure to stop by one of these mills. You'll leave with great memories and maybe a jug of the best cider you've ever tasted. Hudson Valley's apple cider mills truly capture the essence of fall.