LAFAYETTE N.Y. -- Beak & Skiff started off with an unlikely pair, an onion and dairy farmer who joined forces in 1911 to enter an up-and-coming industry.
"Initially, they started out planting some apple trees, and selling apples to local stores, small grocery stores. As the years went on and business expanded, they kept planting more and more trees, expanding the property," explained Beak & Skiff Spokesperson Danielle Fleckenstein.
As the orchard continued to grow, it also faced several challenges, specifically from Central New York's unpredictable weather.
In 1949, a major drought hit the region. Harsh winters in the 50s and 60s also at times destroyed entire crops. But by the 1970s, the orchard was expanding rapidly.
"We added a cider mill, where we make sweet cider, which is still operating today. We also added a pick-your-own operation, which is now called Apple Hill and that's where people come with their families, take a wagon ride, they come pick apples or come on school field trips," Fleckenstein said.
In 2001, Beak & Skiff branched out yet again - this time with a harder product.
"The cider movement is a lot like the craft beer movement. It's a little bit trendy, but it's something different. There are a lot of beers on the market, but a lot of them are very similar. This is something new that is just catching on," said Beak & Skiff Production Manager Peter Fleckenstein.
With success of their hard cider, Beak & Skiff decided five years ago to venture into a different part of the industry when they launched 1911 Spirits, including premium gin and vodka.
"Really, our reach is still regionally with the Beak & Skiff name, but with the 1911 vodka and spirits, we're on a number of cruise lines, we're in airports so, that's exciting," Peter said.
Now in their 5th generation, Fleckenstein said there are no plans to slow down, and construction on their new bakery and cafe is already underway.