Perry making has deep roots in Gloucestershire, stretching back to the 17th century when French wine imports were cut off during the Napoleonic Wars. Local farmers turned to their own fruit, and the rich soils around Hartpury proved ideal for growing Perry pears.

This episode features audio snapshots from the 2025 Totally Cider Tour stop at the National Perry Pear Centre. Our guide, Phil Kester, volunteers with 99PINES , where he helps preserve the region's rare Perry pear varieties. Phil's passion for Perry and deep local knowledge made this visit one of the tour's highlights.

The Roots of the National Perry Pear Centre

• Charles Martell recognized that Perry orchards across Gloucestershire were disappearing and began documenting rare varieties.
• His work led to the first National Perry Collection at the Malvern Three Counties Showground, planted with Tom Oliver and others.
• Jim Chapman later expanded the effort by gifting land at Hartpury. This site is The National Perry Pear Centre and is home to over 100 Perry pear varieties from Gloucestershire and beyond.
• These orchards safeguard living history, connecting generations through the craft of Perry making.

The 99PINES Project

The name 99PINES comes from the line of pines atop nearby May Hill, often called the heart of English Perry country.

Phil Kester of 99PINESS

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/475-Phil-Kester-of-99PINES-with-bottles-of-Perry.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/475-Phil-Kester-of-99PINES-with-bottles-of-Perry.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Phil Kester of 99PINESS

Phil and the volunteers at 99PINES are working to:

• Create a local hub to promote Perry culture in pubs and communities.
• Build a tasting space featuring 80–100 Perry varieties for education and enjoyment.
• Keep the project sustainable by reinvesting proceeds into orchard care and heritage initiatives.

The Art and Challenge of Perry Making

Perry is both art and patience.

• The fruit can rot within days, demanding precise timing at harvest.
• Perry ferments differently from cider and is more sensitive to bacteria.
• Varieties like Blakeney Red and Hartpury Green reveal a range of tannins and textures unique to Perry.
• Phil experiments with bottle conditioning and Pet Nat methods, showing how diverse and expressive Perry can be.

Contact info for National Perry Pear Centre and 99PINES

• National Perry Pear Centre
  • Website: https://www.nationalperrypearcentre.org.uk/
• 99PINES
  • Website: https://www.nationalperrypearcentre.org.uk/99pines-perry/

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• April 27-May3rd 2026 Blossom Time Totally Cider Tour to the United Kingdom
• Edulis Restaurant – Toronto Cider House Luncheons
• NY Cider Fest November 15, 2026

At the base of Burrow Hill life moves at the pace of apples and oak. Here, Julian and daughter Matilda Temperley are testment to the value of family for carry a business such as cider and brandy forward into the next 100 years.

"You have to believe in the Romance of it because you are thinking so far in advance" Matilda Temperly

From orchards planted for future generations to brandy resting quietly in barrels for decades, the Temperleys embody what it means to think in centuries, not seasons.

The Cider: Tradition and Terroir

The mount at Burrow Hill is memorialized in ongoing instagram posts because it provides a magnificent centerpiece of endurance and beauty due to its simplicity of a lone a large sycamore tree, which has become a local landmark and symbol of the Somerset landscape.

Julian Temperly began planting cider apples trees here over 50 years ago. Today there are acres of orchards in different pockets surrounding Burrow Hill. A notable 75 acre orchard that was purchased from the Showering family years ago now, is touted to be the largest standard cider apple orchard in the world.

Here you find the classic Burrow Hill cider as a tannic, full-bodied, and balanced drink. The bottle-fermented Kingston Black and Stoke Red ciders are great for hang time with friends or fine dining. Every cider reflects its orchard origin, emphasizing flavor, heritage, and authenticity.

Distilling Somerset's Spirit

In 1989, Somerset Cider Brandy became the first licensed distiller of apple brandy in the UK since the 19th century. And they have been awarded Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. This status guarantees that the brandy is produced in a consistent and traditional manner within Somerset. Using unique Gazagne stills, which are continuous stills of French design, the Temperleys now have lovely range of offerings from Eau de Vie to 20-year-aged Somerset Cider Brandy. Their Pomona, is a blend of apple juice and brandy, celebrates Somerset roots.

Looking Ahead

The Temperly's 100-year plan focuses on replanting traditional orchards, cultivating local oak for future barrels, and sustaining multi-generational stewardship. The goal: to ensure that Burrow Hill remains a place where apples, family, and time converge into something extraordinary.

Matilda Temperley in the Tasting Room at Somerset Cider & Brandy

Contact info for Somerset Cider and Brandy at Burrow Hill

• Website: https://www.somersetciderbrandy.com

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• 432: Ancha Gergely's Abaliget Garden Projects | Hungarian Cider Maker
• 431: Domaine Johanna Cécillon's Elegant Ciders | Brittany FR
• Totally Cider Tours -
• • UK Cider Tour April 27th - May 3rd, 2026
  • French Cider Tour September 20th - 26th, 2026

What makes a Pét Nat cider sparkle naturally and how is it connected to the rural method you might have heard about in the UK?

In this episode, we take a practical look at:

• What Pét Nat cider is and how it relates to the "rural method"
• A clearer way to describe fermentation: Active Ferment → Quiet Phase → Maturation
• When and how to rack cider for clarity and flavor
• How to time bottling for perfect natural carbonation
• Using a hydrometer to bottle safely at 1.005–1.010 SG
• Essential tips for bottle-conditioning without blowouts
• Why a little yeast haze can add charm to your finished cider

Key Takeaways

• Pét Nat (Pétillant Naturel) means naturally sparkling where the bubbles come from fermentation finishing in the bottle.
• Racking is a simple but essential step to move cider off the lees without introducing oxygen.
• Skip the jargon: watch what your cider is doing, not just the calendar.
• Always use champagne-rated bottles and sanitize everything.
• The reward? Tiny bubbles, wild aroma, and the pure joy of cider alive in the glass.

Cider Making Resource

• Cider Maker check list √ go to https://ciderchat.com/cider-making-equipment/
• Cider Books, Orchard Care, Apple Id and Children's Books

Mentions in this Cider Chat

Cider Making How-to Episodes:

• 095: Cider Making at Home easy as 1-2-3
• 152: How to teach Cider Making 101
• 381: DIY Cider Making for Beginners
• 382: Beginner Tips for Squeaky Clean Cider Equipment
• 384: Beginner Cider-Making Tips for Primary Fermentation
• 386: Managing Cider's Secondary Fermentation – DIY Tips

Fall Event - November 1, 25th Annual Apple Harvest Fest at Albemarle CiderWorks

A Toast to Perry and Place

Enjoy an intimate recording from the 2025 Totally Cider Tour_UK Edition. This unforgettable evening featured James Forbes of Little Pomona, leading guests through a cider dinner pairing in the Malvern Hills located on the border of Herefordshire and Worcestershire in England.

James presents both a welcome Perry, Ciders and a very special aperitif.

We beging with Brut Rosé Perry, crafted from perry pears co-fermented with local damsons. James shared how whole damsons are fermented via carbonic maceration to extract their rich color and flavor before being pressed with early season pears. The result: a radiant sparkling Perry with deep fruit notes and remarkable finesse.

"We actually ferment the damsons whole in CO₂ and then co-press them with the first pears. It gives a whole new layer of aroma and flavor." — James Forbes

A Cider for the Table

Next up was a single varietal Stoke Red cider, a rarity from Little Pomona's usual blends. James described it as a "fully fermented" cider that is balanced and dry yet vibrant, with a whisper of natural sweetness from the Rural Method. This approach captures the cider before all sugars ferment out, creating harmony between acidity and fruit. Check out Wilding Episode with Sam Leach on the Rural Method

"Stoke Red is one of my top three apples. In a less ripe vintage, that touch of sugar brings perfect balance."

Select Cider Apples

Dinner continued with Egremont Russet, a still cider with a light sparkle. The russet's golden skin and nutty depth create an almost wine-like cider. Notes of pineapple, anise, and honey appeared with each sip, echoing the richness of the food and the rustic charm of the evening.

"FOMO" Caps the Night

Dessert brought out a treasure: Little Pomona's "FOMO"—a playful nod to France's Pommeau. Only 192 bottles were made, combining distillate from Bramley apples and Kingston Black juice aged in chestnut barrels. It lent a sweet, amber nectar with layers of floral and plum notes, it was the perfect close to the evening.

James Forbes with FOMO

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"We called it FOMO—a faux Pommeau—because you don't want to miss out on this one."

The Spirit of the Malvern Hills

The evening concluded with words from Deborah Fox CEO of the Malvern Hills Trust, who shared the rich history and heritage of this cherished landscape—home to ancient Perry pears, cider orchards, and centuries of cultivation.

Ria Windcaller and Deborah Fox

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ria-and-Deborah-Fox-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Ria-and-Deborah-Fox-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Ria Windcaller and Deborah Fox

"We keep the hills unbuilt, un-encroached upon, and un-urbanized. …The Perry pear and cider have always been part of this land's story." Deborah Fox

Contact info for Little Pomona

• Website: https://littlepomona.com

Past episodes featuring Little Pomona

• 126: Little Pomona's Big Ciders! | Herefordshire, UK
• 181: The Cider Insider | 100 Craft Ciders to Drink Now
• 460: James Forbes on Little Pomona's Ciders & Legacy

Contact info for Malvern Hills Trust

• Website: https://www.malvernhills.org.uk

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• Vermont's 1000 Stone Farm – Farmers Hand Kitchen cider to watch for in 2026 Chapeau Bruin
  • 465: The Integrated Table: Cider, Food, and Farming at 1000 Stone Farm
• Cider Chat Patreon
• 392: Bent Ladder Estate Ciders & Wine | Ohio
• Totally Cider Tours – France and UK

Newton Court Cider began as a 30-acre farm selling apples to Bulmers. When the market changed, Paul Stephens turned those same orchards into a modern day cider business.

Front view of Newton Court's restaurant and visitor centre in Herefordshire, surrounded by orchards and outdoor seating.

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/471-Netown-Court.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/471-Netown-Court.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" /> Front view of Newton Court's restaurant and visitor centre in Herefordshire, surrounded by orchards and outdoor seating.

His early inspiration came from Brian Shanks, the co-founder of Bold Rock Cider in Virginia. Though Bold Rock produces cider on a large, industrial scale, it was Brian's perspective as a New Zealander who admired Herefordshire's rich cider apple heritage that sparked Paul's drive to build something lasting at home. Today, the recently built out Newton Court tasting room/restaurant is booming showing that tourist and locals alike are thirsty for a full service destination.

Cider Making at Newton Court

It was noted by Paul that his parents open-minded approach helped the farm transistion into the cider destination that it is today. In additon, a recent collaboration with River Cottage led to the award-winning Elderflower Cider, proving that tradition and creativity can thrive together.

Newton Court remains deeply rooted in sustainable farming and regional pride, helping to preserve the orchards and cider heritage of Herefordshire for future generations.

Contact Info for Newton Court

• Website: https://www.newtoncourtcider.com
• Totally Cider Tours

Showering – Shepton Mallet Mill horizontal tanks for cider

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Showering-Horizontal-tanks-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Showering-Horizontal-tanks-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Showering – Shepton Mallet Mill horizontal tanks for cider

In October 2024, Cider Chat MC Ria Windcaller recorded with Tom Vowles of Hedger Cider and Ben Crossman in Somerset. Initially, the two recordings felt like separate brand stories. Then, nearly a year later to the day as the produciton of this audio began and the transcript peeled away a story of entwined history came to light and a shared connection: Coates Cider of Nailsea.

Tom Vowles

" data-medium-file="https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/470-Tom-Vowles-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/470-Tom-Vowles-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Tom Vowles

Suddenly a light bulb was illuminated! The Coates Cider Company was at the helm of the story and here at Cider Chat Central we saw the weaving in of the story behind both Nick Showering and Bob Cork episode on Triple Vintage! The story of cider is entwined in surprising ways and make perfect sense!

Remembering Tom Vowles

Tom walked Ria about his production room which showcased a massive rack and cloth press – that originally came from Coates:

"It's a big old press, isn't it? Came out of Coates originally. We've put a lot into getting it running again, and it does the job." – Tom Vowles

At the time of this recording Hedgers Cider had been opened for just 14 months and during that time had become a go-to place for cider fans. The fact that it is located 5 minutes from the Bristol Airport and along a major artery from Weston super-Mare to Bristol also helps. What we didn't expect was Tom unexpectedly passing away in June of 2025. At the time of this broadcast in fall of 2025, his wife Jo and their son David is now carrying Hedgers forward.

Ben Crossman's Cider and Family History

Ben's story reaches back to the 1930s, when his grandfather made cider alongside Redvers Coate. They even at one time considered a partnership.

Ben Crossman

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/470-Ben-Crossman-with-jug-of-cider-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/470-Ben-Crossman-with-jug-of-cider-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Ben Crossman

• Tradition: Wild ferments, bittersweet varieties
• Continuity: Keeping cider alive through tough decades
• Parallel: A family path entwined with Coates' rise

"It's funny, isn't it? The Coates family were massive, and yet they're not here anymore. But we're still making cider." – Ben Crossman

Sidebar: Coates & Triple Vintage

• Founded 1925 by Redvers Coate in Nailsea
• Wartime boost: rationing and zoning expanded markets
• 1951 premium launch: Triple Vintage and Festival Vat
• 1956 takeover: Showerings doubled production
• Modern link: Showerings' Triple Vintage continues the name – launched in 2023

Reflection: Cider's Market Identity

Cider was the choice drink for many and Perry once rivaled champagne and held prestige in Parliament. Today, the challenge is reclaiming value without losing openness.

Like vinyl records and artisan bread, cider's comeback requires:

• Consistency of quality — season after season
• Audience engagement — beyond cider circles, into wine, food, and tourism
• Authenticity without snobbery — refined yet welcoming

Contact info for Hedgers and Crossman's

• Hedger Cider: https://www.hedgercider.co.uk
• Crossman's Cider: https://www.crossmanscider.co.uk

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• Totally Cider Tours
• Absolem Cider Apple Pie Bake Off – October 4, 2025 – judging starts at 4pm
• Kanga Cider

UK Cider Tour 2025 Audio Snap Shots Wallace and Ria in Bristol

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ria-and-Wallace-in-Bristol.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Ria-and-Wallace-in-Bristol.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Wallace and Ria in Bristol

In this Episode 469 of Cider Chat, we brings listeners inside the UK Totally Cider Tour 2025 through the voices of the guests who joined. From Somerset, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, to Wales guests on this tour discovered not just cider and perry, but also community, history, and inspiration.

First Impressions and Highlights

• Many guests shared that they signed up to experience places they couldn't access on their own.
  • From the scale of Showering's Cider Mill, the second largest in the country to the intimate welcome at Oliver's, the contrast certainly left a deep impression.
• The discovery of Perry was a recurring theme. From Ohio travelers Chris and Megan who tasted their very first Perry on the tour, while Rodney from Virginia declared he'd be grafting Perry scions at home.

Personal Connections Group Selfie with Sam Leach of Wilding Cider

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/469-Group-selfie-Wilding-Cider-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/469-Group-selfie-Wilding-Cider-300x200-1.jpg?fit=300%2C200&ssl=1" /> Group Selfie with Sam Leach of Wilding Cider

• For repeat travelers like Debbie and Bryce from California, the tour reaffirmed how relationships with makers enrich the experience: "
  • They treat us like friends, not tourists."
• Ancha from Hungary spoke of the joy of hiking the Malvern Hills in the rain and celebrating with fellow cider lovers.
• Rachel and Mary of Kanga Cider in Texas noted the value of orchard insights for their own plantings back home, while Thomas from Australia praised the tour for covering the full spectrum of producers—from industrial to artisanal.

Learning and Inspiration

Guests emphasized that tasting ciders in their native terroir cannot be replaced by books or certifications. Dan from Spacetime Mead and Cider Works in Dunmore Pennsylvania highlighted how only by being in Herefordshire or Somerset can one grasp the range of English cider styles.

Susan and Tom of Heeman's Cellars in Ontario pointed out how the pacing of the tour allowed real reflection—something missing from busier farm tours.

The Takeaway

Whether first-timers or repeat guests, everyone agreed: the Totally Cider Tour offers access, education, and camaraderie that can't be replicated alone.

As David of Oregon said it best, "It wasn't really about the cider—it was about the people."

Contact info for Totally Cider Tours

• Website page: https://ciderchat.com/totally-cider-tours/ For details on upcoming cider journeys and to join the waitlist, send an email to [email protected] and write in the heading
  • Totally Cider Tours.
  • Let us know how many are in your party
  • Destinations you would like to visit

Mentions in this Cider Chat Episode 469

• 425: Babycham to Triple Vintage – The Showering's Cider Legacy
• 450th Roger Wilkins – The Cider King
• 444: Worleys and Honey's: Somerset's Cider Makers
• 441: Wilding Cider and the Rural Method | Somerset, UK
• 454: Wild Ferment Meets Fine Cider: Inside Oliver's Barrel Room
• 460: James Forbes on Little Pomona's Ciders & Legacy
• 432: Ancha Gergely's Abaliget Garden Projects | Hungarian Cider Maker

Cider Maker and Founder Lee Van DeWater of Pierrepont Cider shares his story in this episode on how he is forages apples to share a taste of terroir from New York's North Country.

Lee Van DeWater

Foraging Apples for Cider - Sustainable?

Lee's cider journey started with childhood memories of sweet cider and apple trees planted by his great-grandfather. But it wasn't until he worked in Montana—buying wine for a co-op that he connected cider and apples through fermentation. Western Cider of Montana help Lee get that spark/idea of a cider life, and the seed was planted.

Pierrepont cider is a one-man operation, sourcing apples exclusively within the Little River Watershed. Many of the trees Lee uses are wild seedlings, unknown varieties that thrive in New York's tough climate. He honors the trees, the land, and water, seeing cider as a reciprocal act of love for place.

Low-Intervention, High-Expression

Lee is self-taught and intentionally minimalist. His ciders are:

• Wild-fermented
• Unfiltered
• Unsulfited
• Aged in stainless and neutral oak barrels

Some of the most memorable ciders come from single trees. Others are blends of just a few wild apples growing together. He tracks everything via GPS and harvests with the patience and perspective of a forager.

"The tree that holds its fruit until the first snow, that's climate-controlled storage," Lee laughs.

Micro Batches, Big Intention

What's available?

• 2024 Pet-Nat: lemony, spritzy, bright
• Brighter Later: a single-tree cider still in label design
• Orbed Road: a terroir-based expression of elevation
• Maple Sap Ciderkin: rehydrated pomace with local maple sap, sparkling and experimental

Each bottle comes with its own story. You might not find hundreds of cases, but you'll find care, balance, and quiet brilliance.

Contact Info for Pierrepont Cider

• Website: https://www.pierrepontcider.com

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• Vermont & New York Cider Road Trip Series
  • Part 1- 464: Czech Cider: From Roadside Apples to Cellar Ferments
  • Part 2 -465: The Integrated Table: Cider, Food, and Farming at 1000 Stone Farm
  • Part 3 - 466: Growing Cold-Hardy Trees at Saint Lawrence Nursery | NY
  • Part 4 - 467: Canton Apples and Frosty Twig: New York Cider Makers Unite
• Totally Cider Tour_UK Edition 2025
• Sign up for the "early-to-know" wait list for upcoming 2026 Totally Cider Tours
• CiderCon 2026 - Providence, Rhode Island February 2-5.

How Canton Apples and Frosty Twig Fused Two Brands into One

In New York's "North of Upstate" region, in the town of Canton is the Canton Apples production building. It is now also home of a partnership shaping the local cider scene. Owner Joel Howie and cider maker Dan Gallagher live just a mile apart, and their skills mesh perfectly. Joel brings over a decade of experience growing apples, pressing sweet cider, and creating value-added products. Dan, a passionate fermenter, was ready to move beyond hobby scale when the two connected.

Two Brands, One Vision

Under Canton Apples & Cider, LLC, two product lines take shape:

• Canton Apples – approachable, consistent ciders for everyday enjoyment.

Joel Howie

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/467-Joel-Howie-in-the-Apple-storage-room-at-Canton-Apples-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/467-Joel-Howie-in-the-Apple-storage-room-at-Canton-Apples-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Joel Howie

• Frosty Twig – small-batch, specialty ciders showcasing unique apples, fruits, and wild fermentation.

Dan Gallagher

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/467-Dan-Gallagher-on-the-Apple-bins-of-Canton-Apples-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/467-Dan-Gallagher-on-the-Apple-bins-of-Canton-Apples-200x300-1.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Dan Gallagher

Production takes place in a purpose-built facility designed for growth, with future plans for a taproom overlooking the orchard.

Orchard Practices & Apple Diversity

Between their combined orchards, Joel and Dan care for over 250 apple varieties — many planted by Bill McKentley of St. Lawrence Nurseries. These heritage and cold-hardy apples thrive in Zone 4, and every apple grown is put to use. When supplies run short, apples are sourced from other New York regions.

Cider Making Approach

Ciders range from wild-fermented pet-nats to cultured yeast ferments for consistency. Specialty ciders include

• Turkey Tree
• Wild Berry
• Pear cider

Most ciders age 9–10 months before release, allowing flavors to develop naturally.

Canton Apples cider and Frosty Twig Cider series

" data-medium-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/466-Canton-Apples-cider.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" data-large-file= "https://i0.wp.com/ciderchat.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/466-Canton-Apples-cider.jpg?fit=200%2C300&ssl=1" /> Canton Apples cider and Frosty Twig Cider series Contact info for Canton Apples

• Website: https://cantonapples.com

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• Totally Cider Tour_UK Edition 2025
  • Sign up for the "early-to-know" wait list for upcoming 2026 Totally Cider Tours
    • Let us know how many in your party
• Vermont and New York Cider Road Trip series
  • Part 1- 464: Czech Cider: From Roadside Apples to Cellar Ferments
  • Part 2 –465: The Integrated Table: Cider, Food, and Farming at 1000 Stone Farm
  • Part 3 – 466: Growing Cold-Hardy Trees at Saint Lawrence Nursery | NY

A Century of Cold-Hardy Trees

Saint Lawrence Nursery in Potsdam, NY, has been helping cold-climate growers find success since the 1920s. Originally founded by Fred Ashworth and later expanded by Bill MacKentley, the nursery is now stewarded by Connor and Allyssa Hardiman, the third generation in a nonfamilial succession.

What Sets Saint Lawrence Nursery Apart

Cold-Hardy Genetics

• Over 250 apple varieties
• Trialed at temperatures as low as -34°F
• Trees that thrive from Alaska to Michigan

Only Standard Rootstock

• Seedling Antonovka (apples) and Baccata (crabs) for resilience and longevity
• Trees that can live 100+ years

More Than Apples

• Black walnuts, butternuts, hazelnuts, and berry bushes
• Custom grafting for heirloom preservation
• Regionally adapted selections from partnerships and testing plots

Passing the Torch of Generational Wisdom and Branding

The nursery was handed down without a sale. It was gifted by Bill to Connor in a rare act of agricultural generosity. The plan is to do the same one day. "Love is what makes the world go 'round," Bill often says, and it's embedded in every tree tag and planting guide.

Cold Hardy Trees For Orchardists and Backyard Growers

Most customers are small-scale planters or long-time loyalists. Whether you want just one tree to honor a grandparent or 100 cider apples for a startup orchard, Connor and Allyssa are here to help—with personal attention, a rich planting guide, and an option to let them choose the right tree for you.

Contact Info for Saint Lawrence Nursery

• Website: https://www.slngrow.com/

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• Listen to Bill MacKentley's speach at New York Apple Camp 2023 391: Test Winters & Climate w/Saint Lawrence Nurseries (NY) Founder
• Totally Cider Tours
• Patrick McCauley Episode Feature – 302 Washtenaw County Cider Mille 1841- Today
• Topsoil Magazine