Dec 7, 2012

Engelsma’s Apple Barn wins annual cider contest

Jim and Becky Engelsma of Engelsma’s Apple Barn in Grand Rapids, Mich., have taken home another first place win in the 16th annual Michigan Apple Cider Contest. The cider makers have received first place in the contest four times, in 2005, 2007, 2010 and this year.

“I am honored to represent our industry again, and recognize that there are many people that have made this win possible,”said Jim Engelsma. “I am very proud of our industry. Even on the toughest year we have ever gone through, everyone is still hard at work doing what they do best.”

The cider contest had a unique feel this year, as cider makers, judges and contest organizers reflected on a difficult year for the Michigan apple industry.

“It is important to consider how different this year has been, not only for cider but the entire industry,”said Bob Tritten, organizer of the contest and Michigan State University Extension district fruit educator. “Next year we expect to have an abundant crop of apples, and we hope consumers will come back to cider mills.”

Other honors in the 2012 cider contest went to Mary Emmett of Plymouth Orchards and Cider Mill in Plymouth, Michigan, who took home second place. Third place went to Jim and Michelle Goldstein of Hy’s Cider Mill in Romeo, Michigan.

“Michigan’s cider makers put a lot of hard work into their cider,”said Diane Smith, executive director of the Michigan Apple Committee, co-sponsor of the contest. “Most of them grow the apples and work for years on just the right mix of varieties. The contestants take this competition very seriously. We are proud that Michigan can boast so many delicious ciders.”

Tritten began the Michigan Apple Cider Contest in 1996 to improve cider making, promote the industry and educate the public.

The Michigan Apple Committee is a grower-funded nonprofit organization devoted to marketing, education and research activities to distinguish the Michigan apple and encourage its consumption in Michigan and around the world. For more information, visit MichiganApples.com.