“As a wholesaler I think we’re at a disadvantage in many ways, from labor to market access, to geographic location, so I think that the hard cider industry presents an opportunity that I recognize as special. I think that the hard cider companies in Vermont are very interested in seeing that opportunity expand.” -Barney Hodges, Owner, Sunrise Orchards.

“In 1906, four men; John McLean Stevens, Frank Foote, Fred L. Porter, and William L. Brown Sr. planted the first McIntosh trees in the soil at Northern Orchard.” -NorthernOrchard.com

“It certainly opens up possibilities, the way I see the [hard cider movement] growth happening; I could start putting in acreage devoted to hard cider. It shows huge promise, which is fantastic because it’s helping the bottom line.” -Whitney Blodgett, Owner, Sentinel Pine Orchards.

“I love being able to work outside and not have to do the same thing 365 days a year. It’s very satisfying, and I have a very strong connection to the land here, knowing that my father, grandfather, and great grandfather were farming it before me.” -Casey Darrow, Owner, Green Mountain Orchard, Inc.

“It’s exciting every year to see them ripen; it makes you feel good. We’re farmers at heart, and we love to see things grow.” -Stan Pratt, Owner, Happy Valley Orchard.