Business & Tech

Franklin Cider Mill is Back Open

The 2013 apple crop is in much better shape than last year, and has owner Barry Peltz predicting sweet apple goodness all season at the local landmark.


After a tough 2012 season for apples, Franklin Cider Mill owner Barry Peltz is already confident that 2013 will bring sweeter times for the historic landmark and its ever-growing throng of fans. And he's barely been open a week.

"We're much better this year, I'd say at least three times more plentiful than last year," said Peltz about the 2013 apple crop while personally greeting customers Tuesday afternoon waiting for a taste of Franklin's signature cider, donuts and other snacks.

The mill, a historic landmark acquired by the Peltz family in 1966, opened Labor Day weekend and is already drawing crowds. Peltz, who greets children and more-seasoned visitors with the same amount of enthusiasm and gratitude, said he's relieved the yield from this growing season fared better than the 2012 crop that was decimated by frigid temperatures in April.

The Franklin Cider Mill stayed open, despite the apple shortage, while some others around the state closed or limited their products. Peltz said he anticipated a great season, and that customers will notice added flavor to this year's cider. He said he added frozen honey crisp apples salvaged from last year into the bushels pressed in-house.

"It adds a sweetness that sets it all just right," he said with a smile. 

If (when) you go:

  • In addition to the distinct cider and donuts, visitors can also choose apples, baked goods, meats, cheeses, jams, honey and vegetables for purchase. 
  • The cider mill is open the Saturday before Labor Day to the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Regular hours are  Mon - Fri, 7 a.mm - 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. 
  • Parking is free.
  • Share your cider mill photos with your neighbors through Bloomfield-Bloomfield Hills Patch by following these quick steps.


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