Virtue Cider

Foodies looking for an autumnal cidery experience should head straight to Virtue Cider in Fennville, just a few minutes inland from Lake Michigan’s sandy shoreline. Visitors can spend the afternoon sipping award-winning craft cider and nibbling from gourmet charcuterie selections while staying toasty nearby one of the many bonfires on the 48-acre sustainable farm’s property. This solar-powered working farm has walking trails that take guests past expansive gardens, Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs, rabbits, ducks and friendly chickens.

Gregory Hall founded Virtue Cider in 2011 after a 20-year tenure as brewmaster at the Goose Island Beer Co. in Chicago. He then voyaged to France and England to learn the art of cider-making. Hall uses local heirloom apples and traditional farmhouse production methods that include native fermentation with wild yeast and oak barrel aging.

For first-time guests unsure of what to try, take a sip of The Mitten, which boasts hints of vanilla and caramel with a smoky undertone. Virtue Cider is a beautiful place to celebrate life’s special occasions, and the Salut cider’s crisp and bubbly taste is perfect for toasting brides-to-be, newlyweds and college grads. Finally, the Belleau Wood 2022 is perfect as winter weather encroaches, featuring oak and vanilla flavors with a twist of cinnamon and spices. 

Those who want to dive deeper into the world of craft cider can book a tour led by cider-makers. Participants can learn about pressing, fermentation, blending and barrel aging as they explore Virtue Cider’s three productions houses and sample ciders along the way. The cidery is not just for mom and dad, as family-friendly events are on the books throughout the year, such as the annual Apple Fest which features apple-themed activities and education. 2170 62nd St., Fennville, Michigan 49408, 269/722-3232, virtuecider.com