# Crafting Cider from the Ground Up: Milk and Honey Cider’s Agritourism Journey

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/rooted-agritourism-6069338/crafting-cider-from-the-ground-up-milk-and-honey-cider-s-agritourism-journey
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/rooted-agritourism-6069338/crafting-cider-from-the-ground-up-milk-and-honey-cider-s-agritourism-journey.md
Podcast: [Rooted Agritourism](https://stenobird.com/podcast/rooted-agritourism-6069338)
Published: 2025-09-29T11:10:09+00:00
Episode link: https://rss.com/podcasts/sunnymarymeadow/2210221
Audio file: https://content.rss.com/episodes/185131/2210221/sunnymarymeadow/2025_09_11_03_56_36_794c5320-2b5e-4cef-a452-73944731b9ee.mp3
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Duration seconds: 2358

## Resource

In this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen from Sunny Mary Meadow interviews Peter Gillitzer, co-owner of Milk and Honey Cider in St. Joseph, Minnesota. The conversation explores the journey of Milk and Honey Cider, from the challenges of growing cider-specific apple varieties to turning those apples into craft cider. Peter shares insights into the agronomic and economic aspects of apple farming, addressing topics like grafting, soil requirements, pest management, pruning, and the importance of understanding one's strengths in farming. The discussion extends to the cider-making process, including fermenting, aging, blending, and addressing how Milk and Honey balances customer demand with their craft. The episode highlights the collaborative spirit within the local farming community and the importance of supporting local agritourism. 00:00 Introduction to Rotted Agritourism 00:19 Meet Peter Giler: Co-Owner of Milk and Honey Cider 01:37 Starting with Apples: The Journey Begins 02:31 Challenges and Trials in Apple Growing 04:57 Understanding Cider and Mead 10:47 The Economics of Apple Farming 18:50 Harvesting and Production Insights 19:56 Grading and Processing Apples 20:30 Cider Production Benefits 21:15 Collaborations and Diversification 22:58 Community and Competition 25:58 Cider Making Process 29:50 Balancing Production and Demand 32:45 Crafting Unique Ciders 37:32 Conclusion and Contact Information Podcast Website: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/rootedagritourism Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootedagritourism/ Business Coaching: https://www.sunnymarymeadowcoaching.com/ Farm Website: www.sunnymarymeadow.com FarmerstoFlorists: https://www.farmerstoflorists.com/ Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnymarymeadow/ Podc…

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