Dec 10, 2015

Engelsma’s Apple Barn wins Michigan cider contest for sixth time

Jim and Becky Engelsma and daughter Bridget of Engelsma’s Apple Barn took first place in the 19th Annual Michigan Apple Cider Contest.

The contest took place Dec. 9, as part of the Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market EXPO. Thirty-eight cider makers participated. This marked the sixth time Engelsma’s Apple Barn, Walker, Michigan, has taken home the trophy.

“This competition started nearly 20 years ago with three goals: to help promote our fine Michigan apple cider industry, to improve the quality of our cider and to provide additional educational and learning opportunities for our cider makers. We’ve come a long way over the years,” said Bob Tritten, district fruit educator with Michigan State University Extension and founder of the contest. “For this year’s contest we had 38 entries from across the state of Michigan. Nine judges worked hard to choose the best of the best Michigan ciders.”

Uncle John’s Cider Mill in St. Johns and its cider makers, Mike and Dede Beck, took second place. Third place was Miller Orchards in Romeo and cider maker Kenny Miller.

“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 contest is sponsored by the Michigan Apple Committee, the Michigan State Horticultural Society and Fruit Growers News.