2011 Apple Hill Cider Press

®

Johnny Appleseed’s Birthday: Check out the fun activities! Page 8

The you-pick experience: Fun for the whole family! Page 16

Maps and guides: Detailed ranch offerings.

Page 18-24

Your Official 2011 Guide to Apple Hill®

Major Routes to the Apple Hill® Area see map to ranches - center of Cider Press

Apple Hill® Ranches

Cover Photo

Edio Delfino, George Visman and Gene Larsen, Founding Fathers of the Apple Hill® Growers Association.

WE’VE COME A LONG WAY BABY from those days when the Camino area farmers decided to band together to solve the problems associated with apple farming in the ’60s. Their main problem: in the apple wholesale market the profits were so small that some farmers were in danger of losing their land holdings which meant giving up a way of life many had known for generations. The Apple Hill® Growers Association was established in 1964 to reach out to the consumer, to invite people to individual area farms, and to sell fresh apples and other fruit through a very new concept called Ranch Marketing. Of course now everyone knows the benefit of eating fresh, locallygrown fruit picked right from the tree! We honor those founding members of the Apple Hill® Growers Association for their forward thinking and we can only hope that future generations will maintain the high standards and dedication to farming that the original farmers modeled for us.

Local Advertiser Index Advertiser

Phone

Annieberries Children’s Boutique Apple Hill Harvest Run Best Western Placerville Inn Best Western Stagecoach Inn Buttercup Pantry Candy Strike Olde Tyme Candy and More Dedrick’s Main Street Cheese Eden Vale Inn Bed and Breakfast Forester Pub & Grill Gold Country Artists’ Gallery Hangtown’s Gold Bug Park & Mine Heyday Café & Wine Bar Historic Cary House Hotel Hog Wild BBQ The Independent Restaurant & Bar Mother Lode Insurance Services LLC Pampering Pickle Placerville Clothing Co. Placerville Fruit Growers Association Placerville Hardware Randolph Jewelers Sequoia Restaurant Sierra Gold Graphics Sly Park Recreation Area Snowline Hospice Strauss Food Service Winterhill Olive Oil Zia’s Italian Gelato, Caffé & Wine Bar

(530) 626-1444 www.annieberries.com (916) 492-8966 www.applehillrun.org (530) 622-9100 www.bwplacervilleinn.com (530) 644-2029 www.bestwesterncalifornia.com/pollockpines.html (530) 621-1320 www.buttercuppantryhangtown.com (530) 295-1007/(866) 409-2763 www.CandyStrike.com (530) 344-8282 www.Dedrickscheese.com (530) 621-0901/(866) 914-8445 www.EdenValeInn.com (530) 644-1818 www.foresterpub.com (530) 642-2944 www.goldcountryartistsgallery.com (530) 642-5207 www.goldbugpark.org (530) 626-9700 www.heydaycafe.com (530) 622-4271 www.caryhouse.com/apple (530) 622-3883 www.hogwildbbqca.com (530) 344-7527 www.IndependentPlacerville.com (530) 677-8755/(800) 677-8181 www.motherlodeinsurance.com (530) 344-7451 www.pamperingpickle.com (530) 626-3554 (530) 622-2640 www.placervillefruitgrowers.com (530) 622-1151 (530) 622-3787 www.randolphsjewelry.com (530) 622-5222 www.seqouiaplacerville.com (530) 622-4500 sierragoldgraphics@sbcglobal.net (530) 295-6810 www.eid.org (530) 647-2703 www.snowlinehospice.org (530) 295-1274 jstrauss@straussfs.com (530) 626-6369 www.winterhillfarms.com (530) 642-ZIAS (9427) www.ziasgelato.com

Web/e-mail Address

Page # 33 27 11 31 31 32 32 31 31 33 13 32 32 31 33 29 32 33 14 32 33 31 14 13 29 14 33 31

Please support the businesses advertised in this publication.

For information on advertising in the Apple Hill® Cider Press, contact Apple Hill® Growers at: www.applehill.com or (530) 644-7692

Discover YOUR Apple Hill®…

Welcome to the 47th anniversary season of the Apple Hill® Growers Association. This year’s Cider Press theme is “Apple Hill®: Fresh! Local!

Fun!” Founded in 1964, the Apple Hill® Association practically invented the “local” in local.

From the very beginning, the goal of the farmer members was to offer the consumer an opportunity to enjoy the freshest Christa Campbell fruits of the harvest with products straight off the farm.

“Eat local and fresh” continues to be the message of the Apple Hill® growers. The farmers invite you to come to the ranches and take home fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and Christmas trees. They invite you to enjoy products, including baked goods, jams, jellies, ciders, olive oil and wines, freshly made from the harvest. They invite you to meet them at local farmers’ markets and share their passion for the cornucopia of freshness.

And while you eat local and fresh, have fun. Through forty-seven seasons, Apple Hill® farm families have shared pleasurable times with your families. As you celebrate the local bounty, you continue to help sustain the family farms of Apple Hill® for future generations to relish and enjoy.

For more information on “Apple Hill®: Local! Fresh!

Fun,” explore this publication or visit www.applehill.com.

Again welcome to Apple Hill’s® 47th season. Get fresh! Get local! Have fun!

Christa K. Campbell, President Apple Hill® Growers Association

President Christa Campbell (middle) and Exec. Dir. Ann Wofford (right) accept an award from SACOG in the name of the Apple Hill® Growers Association from Leslie McBride.

SACOG Honors AHGA

The Apple Hill® Growers Association was honored Friday, December 10, 2010, at the Sacramento Area Council of Governments’ Rural-Urban Connections Strategies Forum.

Association President Christa Campbell and Executive Director Ann Wofford were present to receive a “Special Recognition” award from SACOG Board Chair Leslie McBride. The Apple Hill® Growers were saluted for creating “successful marketing opportunities for specialty growers in El Dorado County, including farm stands, seasonal campaigns and special events. As one of the first successful growers’ associations in our region, Apple Hill® serves as a model locally and nationally. The Apple Hill® Growers Association is a replicable example of how rural-urban connection can be a source of income- and longevity- for small farms.” President Campbell is thrilled that the hard work and dedication of small farmers has been recognized by SACOG, saying, “The Apple Hill® Growers are extremely grateful to be receiving this recognition from the Sacramento Area Council of Governments. The award validates our goal of preserving agriculture in El Dorado County and our pride in sustaining our small family farms.”

Apple Hill® Growers Mission Statement The Apple Hill® Growers shall promote and advertise the ranch marketing of Apple Hill® agricultural products.

The Apple Hill® Growers shall work to establish a reputation for the high, inherent quality of Apple Hill® agricultural products in both the wholesale and retail markets.

The Apple Hill® Growers shall work to maintain and accentuate the natural beauty and rural atmosphere of the “Apple Hill® Scenic Drive.” (Apple Hill® Drive on Caltrans signs.)

The Apple Hill® Growers, individually and collectively, shall strive to improve the growing, harvesting, packaging, storage and presentation for sale of Apple Hill® agricultural products.

4

Apple Hill Cider Press

About the Cider Press The Apple Hill Cider Press is published yearly by the Apple Hill® Growers Association, Inc., a nonprofit organization. The Cider Press is the only authorized guide of the Apple Hill® Growers.

It may be found at Apple Hill® ranches, selected merchants, El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce offices and locations along the Highway 50 corridor.

For advertising or sponsorship information contact the Apple Hill® Growers at (530) 644-7692, P. O. Box 494, Camino, CA 95709.

Or e-mail us at info@applehill.com If you would like to order copies of The Apple Hill® Cider Press please include your address along with $2.00 per copy requested to cover postage costs.

Apple Hill® Growers President: Christa Campbell Publications Committee: Chairman: Robyn Delfino.

Members: Christa Campbell, Joan Delfino, Kara Lawrence, John and Gail Palmer, Vicki Price, Pat Scheuner, Ann Wofford.

Apple Hill® Executive Director: Ann Wofford Finance: John Palmer Advertising: Robyn Delfino, Vicki Price Contributing Photographer: Bill Scales Writing: Maryann Argyres, Christa Campbell, Joan Delfino, Beth Jones, Kara Lawrence, Gail Palmer, and Ann Wofford.

Production and Design: Image Factory Published for Apple Hill® Growers by Image Factory image_factory@comcast.net (530) 622-4524 ®

Apple Hill Office

www.applehill.com (530) 644-7692 Thanks to all of our advertisers and Apple Hill® member growers for making this publication a success.

Copyright © 2011 Apple Hill® Growers Association, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of maps, listings or editorial content is prohibited without written permission. Neither the advertiser nor the publisher is liable for misinformation, misprints, or typographical errors which may appear in this publication. Apple Hill® is a registered trademark of the Apple Hill® Growers Association, Inc.

®

Art in the Orchard page 3

Johnny Appleseed’s Birthday page 8

Kid Specific Activities page 9

Bluestone Meadow

10

Classic to the Core page 13

The You-Pick Experience page 16

Apple Hill® Maps and Guides pages 18-24

Farmers’ Markets

11

Norma Brubaker Scholarship page 26

2011 Apple Hill® Harvest Run page 27

Free Shuttle Service page 29

Collina di Mella

12

Area Lodging and Dining page 31

Downtown Placerville page 32-33

Growers Serving Lunch page 34

Book Review

28

Apple Hill® Calendar of Events Back Cover

Please visit the Apple Hill website to find Apple Hill details, updated information, and the 2011 Cider Press online

Everything Old is New Again 38

Apple Blossom 2011 Participating Ranches Rapetti Christmas Tree Farm #90 Rapetti Christmas Tree Farm has coordinated the Apple Blossom Cross Country Run, a scenic journey through our ranches.

Kids, Inc. #5 Join us for a weekend of family fun in honor of Joan Barsotti.

A portion of proceeds will benefit the Joan Barsotti Scholarship Fund.

Barsotti Family Juice Company #30 Boa Vista Orchards #3 Boeger Winery #32 El Dorado Orchards #19 Fenton Herriott Vineyards #50 Fudge Factory Farm #40 High Sierra Iris & Wedding Gardens #29 Jack Russell Farm Brewery #36 Larsen Apple Barn #9 Lava Cap Winery #26 Madroña Vineyards #6 between One vine produces Mother Lode Orchards #8 es of wine. four and six bottl ParaVí Vineyards #12

Wine Fun Facts

Pine O’Mine #41 Rainbow Orchards #10 Smokey Ridge Farmstand and Charcuterie #133 Wofford Acres Vineyards #25

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www.applehill.com

OPEN DAILY LABOR DAY WEEKEND THROUGH

DECEMBER 24TH! BAKE SHOPS • Visit our bakeshops for a large variety of pies and cakes • Apple donuts and fritters • Caramel Apples

APPLE BARN • Mountain grown, freshly picked apples • Apple juice • jams, jellies • Apple butters and syrups

INDOOR OR OUTDOOR DINING • Enjoy hamburgers, hot dogs, salads • Delicious BBQ chicken, ranch chili, sandwiches, nachos or salads

HIGH HILL RANCH PROUDLY PRESENTS! The Best ~ Hard Cider In Apple Hill Is it apple moonshine or apple sherry?

You be the judge!

ESPRESSO BAR KETTLECORN GIFT SHOP DAILY CRAFT SHOW TROUT FISHING

Refined & Perfected!

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Sierras and feel the cozy country atmosphere that invites you to make High Hill Ranch a family tradition. George Visman welcomes you to High Hill Ranch.

1

HIGH HILL RANCH 2901 High Hill Road • Placerville (530) 644-1973 E-mail: highhillranch@att.net

School Field Trips Large Group Luncheons (by reservation only) Grassy Picnic Area Huge collection of apple peelers dating from the 1850s Local artists with high quality and hand made crafts

Apple Hill® Cake This recipe is for one of the most delicious apple desserts and it has an added advantage – it is very easy!

Combine

Add

Sift together

2 cups sugar, 1/2 cup oil and 2 eggs 4 cups diced apples (Golden Delicious) 2 cups flour, 1 tsp. salt, 2 tsp. cinnamon, 1 tsp. nutmeg, 2 tsp. baking soda

Add sifted dry ingredients to apple mixture.

Pour into 9” x 13” greased cake pan and bake for 1 hour in a preheated 350° oven.

The Apple Hill® Growers have compiled their many tasty and time-tested recipes into three recipe books. These are available for purchase at your favorite Apple Hill Grower.

To order by mail: write to Apple Hill Growers, P.O. Box 494 Camino, CA 95709. Or leave your name and address at (530) 644-7692 and we’ll send you an order form.

Apple Hill® Celebrates

Johnny Appleseed’s Birthday!

On September 18 the folks in Apple Hill® will again celebrate Johnny Appleseed’s birthday with fun activities for kids.

Visit these Apple Hill® Ranches to join in the celebration.

Kids’ activities will be held at the following ranches:

You’re invited …

What? Johnny Appleseed’s

Birthday Party with lots of fun activities for kids Where? Apple Hill® ranches When? Sunday, September 18

Please Come!

8

#5 Kids Inc: Enjoy mini cooking classes, walkin’ pie-eating contest, farm-egg races. #9 Larsen Apple Barn: Meet Mr. Apple and take his picture with our farm-family silhouettes in Larsen Park. #10 Rainbow Orchards: Tour the cider mill and collect apple seeds from the apple pulp. Tour Guide is Johnny Appleseed. #17 Grandpa’s Cellar: Do an Orchard-Bingo Treasure Hunt. #18 O’Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch: Celebrate both Johnny Appleseed’s and Peter O’Halloran’s birthdays with birthday cake. Visit the newly-planted apple tree that is documented to be a graft from one of Johnny’s trees.

Apple Hill Cider Press

#20 Apple Ridge Farms: Johnny Appleseed coloring books for kids 12 and under. #37 Apple Pantry Farm: Get your hands in the dough. Make a Johnny Appleseed turnover. 11:00—3:00. #40 Fudge Factory Farm: Make your own Johnny Appleseed chocolate candy. 11:00–3:00. #41 Pine O’Mine: Pick your own apple from the tree and decoupage your own apple pot. #84 Harris Tree Farm: Come for a scavenger hunt and make your own apple crisp. #133 Smokey Ridge Farmstand and Charcuterie: Enjoy our Sausage Festival and sample a variety of sausages made from ranch product.

Kid-Specific Activities Fun for the whole family

#38 Abel’s Apple Acres Lead-Line Horse/Pony Rides: Weekends, weather permitting. Charge Hay-Bale Maze: Weekends, weather permitting. Charge Johnny Appleseed’s Measuring Tree: Free Photo-op Cutouts: School bus, pumpkin, witch, ghost, pony, cows, apple. Free Field Trips: By appointment: 676-5317

#40 Fudge Factory Farm Candy-Making Workshops: Weekends or by appointment: 644-3492. $5.00-$8.00 Birthday Parties: By appointment: 644-3492 for info.

Tours: Weekdays by appointment: 644-3492 for info.

Play Area: Daily. Free

#20 Apple Ridge Farms Petting Zoo: Daily. Free Feed the Animals: Daily. 50¢ per feed cup Hay-Bale Maze: Daily. $3.00 Nature Trail: Walk to neighboring farms. Daily. Free Field Trips: Mon-Thurs, by appointment: 647-0613.

Minimum 10 children. Charge U-Pick Pumpkin Patch: Late Sept-Oct. Priced per pound.

#21 Goyette’s North Canyon Ranch (weekends) U-Pick Apples & Pumpkins: Sept-Nov. Charge

#14 Denver Dan’s Apple Patch U-Pick: Daily. Charge Cookin’ Kids: Mon- Thurs, 10am & 2pm, by appointment: 644-6881. Minimum of 5. Charge Apple-Wreath Making: Mon- Thurs, 10am-2pm, by appointment: 644-6881. Minimum of 5. Charge Orchard Tours: Includes picking apples (3), apple peeler demo, apple slinky, cookies and small glass of cider. Charge Sara’s Animals: Saturdays. Free Educational Tours: Weekdays by appointment: 644-6881. Minimum 5 children. Charge Apple Slinkies from Big Al: Weekends.

Free #19 El Dorado Orchards (F,S,S) Hands-on Crafts: Charge Train Rides: Charge Horse & Pony Rides: Charge Field Trips: WEEKDAYS by appointment: 622-5522 (Boa Vista Orchards) for info

#17 Grandpa’s Cellar Nature Trail: Educational signs of native plants. Daily. Free Nature Trail: Walk to neighboring farms.

Daily. Free Educational Tours: Tues-Thurs by appointment: 644-2153. $1.00/person Pottery-Making Demonstrations: Weekends in Oct. Free Face Painting: Weekends in Oct. Charge Pet an Emu: Weekends in Oct. Free Haunted Nature Trail: Oct 27-31, weather permitting. Free #15 Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard U-Pick: Cherries, peaches, pears, apples, persimmons (call for ripening dates: 6471810). Priced per pound U-Pick Pumpkin Patch: Cut your pumpkin off the vine. Priced by weight/size Photo-op: Hay bale with GIANT pumpkin & scarecrows. Free Chestnut Fun: Learn how chestnuts grow. Mid Oct-Nov. Free #84 Harris Tree Farm Nature Trail: June-Dec. Free Scavenger Hunt: June-Dec. Free Corn Maze: Sept.-Nov. Charge U-Pick Pumpkins: Sept-Oct. Charge

Apple Hill Cider Press

#1 High Hill Ranch Fishing: Daily. Priced per pound School Field Trips: Mon-Fri by appointment: 644-1973. Charge Pony Rides: Fri-Sun. Charge Face Painting: Weekends. Charge Hay Rides: Weekends. Charge #5 Kids Inc Farm Animals: Free Nature Trail: Free U-Pick Pumpkins: Priced by size Corn Maze: Weekends. $2.00 School Tours: Mon., Thurs., Fri. by appointment: 622-0184 #23 Mill View Ranch U-Pick Pumpkin Patch: Daily. Charge Photo-op: Take pictures among the pumpkins & hay bales. Free #41 Pine O’ Mine U-Pick: Blueberries, raspberries, apples and pumpkins. Daily, priced per pound.

Daily, according to product season.

Play Area: Daily. Free Photo-op: Seasonal wagon #10 Rainbow Orchards Hay-Bale Walk-a-Crooked Mile: Daily. Free Piper’s Pumpkins: Photo-op with over 30 varieties of heirloom squash and pumpkins. Daily. Free #28 Sun Mountain Farm (weekends or weekdays by appointment: 621-3740) U-Pick Apples: Priced per pound U-Pick Pumpkins: Priced by size U-Pick Blueberries: June only.

Priced per pound 9

DOUBLE CRUSTED PIES

Traditional Hand-Crafted Apple Pie Blackberry Apple Pie • Caramel Apple Pie Cranberry Orange Apple Pie • Cinnamon Red Hot Apple Pie Strawberry Rhubarb Apple Pie • Giant 7 lb. Party Apple Pie Whole Wheat & Honey Apple Pie No-sugar added Apple Pie No-sugar added Blackberry Apple Pie

PRE-BAKED SPECIALTY PIES

French Apple Pie • Pecan Crunch Apple Pie Pumpkin Apple Pie • Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie Raspberry Cream Cheese Apple Pie Sour Cream Apple Pie • Walnut Apple Pie Sour Cream Blackberry Apple Pie

OTHER APPLE SPECIALTIES Apple Almond Bar • Caramel Apple Bar Turnovers • Dumplings • Strudel • Pie Dough Crisps • Cakes • Cookies & Cookie Dough

TOURS FOR ALL AGES NATURE TRAIL COUNTRY STORE Apples and more apples!

Apple butters, jams & syrups Famous Apple Cinnamon Sauce All products made on site!

CRAFT FAIR & BBQ Meet the Artists “on the green” October weekends

RESERVE A PIE!

Call or order online (24 hours notice please) We’ll have it ready at the pre-order door!

Open Daily 10 - 5 • Sept. - Nov. 23 Fri, Sat, Sun thru Dec. 11th

Bake Shop 644-2153

2360 Cable Road, Camino 95709

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www.grandpascellar.com INTERNET SPECIALS 10

New Rancher John Havicon stands among some of his many varietals of lavender at Bluestone Meadow.

Stop and Smell the Lavender “It’s nice to have a big chunk of land to do things on.” John Havicon has big plans for his “chunk” and is working hard to make them happen.

John and his wife, Carolyn, have purchased land along Carson Road to grow lavender, Christmas trees, and pumpkins.

The site is part of the Deep Blue Lead, a rich mining vein, and is full of the Blue Schist rock that gives Bluestone Meadow its name. It’s a great place for family to gather, including the Havicon’s daughters, Ashley (a nursing student at Sac State) and Danielle (working on her PhD in Economics at UC Davis). It will also be a wonderful romping place for their granddaughter born in November, 2010.

John is retiring in three years and he and Carolyn, a Sales Executive for Kaiser, are building a house on Bluestone Meadow.

At Bluestone Meadow John and Carolyn are currently growing over 20 different kinds of lavender with 800 plants in the ground. Future plans include planting 2,000 additional plants and erecting a greenhouse for “starts”, a demo garden containing two plants each of sixty varietals, and a distiller which will extract essential oils from lavender Apple Hill Cider Press

for making soaps and lotions.

A favorite lavender variety for John is “Grosso”, which is perfect for crafts, having “really long stems and potent aroma”.

For culinary use he is fond of “Melissa” for tea and scones. John and Carolyn plan to serve lavender tea to people signing up to take classes on lavender wandmaking and wreath-making. They will also offer their roadside property as a rest stop for cyclists as John is a cyclist himself, and the road frontage will make an ideal stop to rest, to make repairs and to have a cup of lavender tea!

After being in law enforcement for the State Parks in Sacramento, John is happy to return to his first interests: forestry science and “silvaculture”, which is growing pine trees. “I’m using what I learned in college and having fun with it,” he says. John and Carolyn have planted Nordmann and Douglas Fir Christmas trees which will be ready for harvest in about five years.

Bluestone Meadow will be open July 16 and 17, 2011, with lavender sales, and then again in the fall with pumpkins and more lavender. Don’t forget to bring your bike when you visit!

Look for Us at Farmer’s Markets!

Do you sometimes have a craving for Apple Hill® fruits, vegetables, cider, baked goods, or wine and find that your favorite ranch is closed for the season? Do you know that you can purchase Apple Hill® products at many of your local Farmers’ Markets? Several Apple Hill® Growers pack up trucks full of goods, plus tables and canopies, and set up at local Farmers’ Markets and at others as far away as Lake Tahoe and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Growers participating in Farmers’ Markets profit by selling their products directly to the buyer just as they do on the farm during harvest season. By buying at local Farmers’ Markets as well as at Apple Hill® ranches, the shopper benefits by being able to choose from the freshest seasonal produce available.

Enjoying locally grown foods not only promotes healthy living, but also supports small family farms, open space, and biodiversity in our communities.

When you hunger for those freshly-grown and freshly-produced Apple Hill® goods, think local and eat local by shopping at Apple Hill® ranches and by visiting our growers at Farmers’ Markets close to where you live. The following Apple Hill ®growers sell at Farmers’ Markets: Kids Inc, Rainbow Orchards, Apple Ridge Farms, Wofford Acres Vineyards, Fudge Factory Farm, Goodness Orchard, Collina de Mella, Harris Tree Farm, and Smokey Ridge Farmstand and Charcuterie.

Contact these ranches to locate an Apple Hill® grower at a Farmers’ Market near you.

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open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. - September 1 - December 1 Bill & Felice Johnson, 2234 Cable Road • P.O. Box 534 Camino, CA 95709

(530) 644-5283 Apple Hill Cider Press

11

Collina di Mela: A Great Farmers’ Market Find Once again, the ranches of the Apple Hill® Growers Association have added a new product to the lineup offered by their farms. The Sbragia family at Collina di Mela is producing an olive oil that garnered a gold medal at the prestigious Los Angeles International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition in 2010.

The Sbragias moved back to California from the Mid-West after Ron retired from his job with Dow Chemical.

A plant pathologist by training, he and Judy met as students at UC Davis, where Judy was earning her degree in Sociology and obtaining her teaching credential.

In 2004 they moved to Placerville.

Because Ron’s family grew olive trees in Italy, Ron wanted to carry on the tradition and planted 270 olive trees.

Currently planted on their spacious property are several varieties of olive trees, including Frantoio, Leccino, Pendolino and Coratina. Picking the

12

Ron Sbragia’s olive oil heritage continues at his Apple Hill® ranch.

olives at different stages of ripeness, from green to purple to black, the Sbragia family creates a complex blend of flavors for their olive oil. Ron and Judy have plans to begin curing olives, and have planted Picholine and Grosso di Spagna for that purpose. The Sbragias pressed out 23 gallons of olive oil for the 2011 harvest. That pressing was double what the olives yielded for the 2010 harvest, the harvest that garnered them the

www.applehill.com

gold medal. And, Judy says, “We are hoping to do the same (double the quantity) again this year.”

Collina di Mela olive oil is available at local Farmers’ Markets and at Boeger Winery. Eventually, they plan to expand sales to the orchard property.

For eight years Ron and Judy have also grown several varieties of lavender for drying and fresh-bloom sales, including Grosso, Provence, Alba (which is white and popular for weddings), Sarah, Super and Hidcote. “We planted a lot to see what grew well and what we liked,” says Judy, with Ron adding, “We bounce around, planting just a few of each kind to see what we like.”

The lavender, primarily sold wholesale, is now a popular product at Farmers’ Markets as well! The lavender allowed two of the couple’s four grandchildren to expand the family business by selling Please see Collina di Mela, page 14

Classic to the Core Every year, one of the most frequent comments our ranchers hear is, “Why have I never heard of that apple before?” So we asked several of our growers to comment on some older and/or less-frequently-grown varieties that might be of interest to our visitors. As you will see, if you already love these apples you are in good company!

Brad from Boa Vista Orchards, Stan from Sun Mountain Farms, Wendy from Smokey Ridge Farmstand and Charcuterie, and John and Gail from Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard all love the Arkansas Black, which is one of the apples currently gaining popularity. Stan says, “The Arkansas Black is extremely crisp and keeps for many months. In fact, the flavor improves after storage for a month or two. I expect it is the reason the wagon

trains carried this variety because of its keeping qualities. This apple shows very well since it has a deep red, almost black-red color.”

Wendy comments on this apple’s “smokey” flavor. Brad notes, “The Arkansas Black really reminds many of the type of apple customers enjoyed when they were growing up--crunchy old-fashioned taste at its best!” John and Gail add, “We appreciate the fact that this late apple is still on the trees for picking when many of our other apples are already gone.”

Boa Vista Orchards grows McIntosh, Newtown Pippins, Romes and Stayman Winesaps, planted years ago, when, as Brad says, “These were the main variet-

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(530) 642-5207 www.goldbugpark.org

Please see Apple Profiles, page 34

Apple Hill Cider Press

13

Collina di Mella

continued from page 12

lavender bunches and sachets on the beach at Lake Tahoe-- a summer job that added to their college funds.

The name Collina di Mela means “Hill with an Apple Tree”-- a fitting name for a wonderful addition to the Apple Hill® Growers Association! The Apple Hill® Growers welcome Ron and Judy Sbragia into the Association and look forward to watching them expand their production and their lavender-framed olive orchard.

You can find out where to obtain Collina di Mela olive oil and lavender by visiting www.collinadimelaoliveoil.com

PINE O’ MINE

41

2620 Carson Road, Placerville (530) 344-0288 website: www.pineomine.com e-mail: pineomine@comcast.net

Wholesale Cash & Carry Open to the Public

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14

4600 Missouri Flat Rd. Placerville • (530) 622-2640

America’s

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BAKEMAR K WESTCO

El Dorado County’s Largest and Most Complete Full Service Wholesale Food Service Supplier.

Serving the Community for 45 Years.

Open Mon. - Fri. 7AM -5PM •Sat 7AM-12PM jstrauss@straussfs.com www.applehill.com

~ A Delfino Family Business ~ Home Style Bake Shop • Farm Animals • Grassy Picnic Area Nature Trail • Apples • Pumpkins • Christmas Trees Gift Shop • The Famous Hill Grill

How The Farmer Got His Fence

T

here have been so many interesting Delfino “legends” told over the years at Kids Inc. One such legend relates to the famous split-rail fence that borders North Canyon Road here at our ranch. It’s become our distinctive landmark and locals will direct searching visitors by saying, “Just look for the split-rail fence.”

There’s a story about how that fence was built in the 70’s and involves my husband and a grand party he threw while his parents were out of town . Some say there were 1,000 people at that party. It was a “risky business”-type venture in which he charged admission (com-

Pie Shop NEW! OPENING

JULY 4TH WEEKEND! Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Mondays starting after Labor Day Open 9am to 5pm

BREAKFAST SERVED IN OCT. & NOV. – Saturdays and Sundays Only 9am -11am THANKSGIVING WEEK BAKE SHOP OPEN Wednesday, Friday Saturday and Sunday Call ahead for Special Orders Open 9-5

5

pletely illegal) in return for all-you-can-drink beer. A parent’s worst nightmare!

The morning after, when my husband’s parents returned, you can imagine their horror to find the destruction and garbage left by the partygoers. Worse yet was the embarrassment my upstanding in-laws felt as the news of the party quickly spread throughout our small town. My husband’s father, a genius really, decided to teach my husband a lesson: He would hide the many empty kegs while my husband slept off the evening “fun”. In order for my husband to get the kegs back and return them for the several

Experience the Difference!

All our desserts are made from scratch and by hand and with fresh fruit grown here at our ranch!

Look for KIDS INC. at Farmers' Markets Beginning April 2nd See our website for details

Always on our Bake Shop Menu

Farmhouse Pie • French Apple Pie Walkin’ Pie • Apple Crisp Blackberry Sour Cream Pie Apple Hill Cake • Georgia Cake Cream Cheese Pumpkin Pie Apple Cheesecake • Apple Empanadas

hundred dollars in deposits, he was required to build a split-rail fence along the Kids Inc property at North Canyon Road. Well, my husband built the fence, along with his associates/best friends (who were also in big trouble with their parents), under the watchful eye/verbal whip of his unrelenting father.

Upon completion, his father returned the kegs and my husband got his deposit back.

To this day, when our little Delfino family wants a big job done, we joke to the children that they should “do something wrong”.

Thankfully, we have an unpainted barn and no new fences.

OPENING DAY! JULY 2, 2011

Fami Even ly ts!

Art-in-the-Orchard August 27th - 28th, 2011

Sat/Sun, Sept. 17-18, 2011 Annual Kids Day Weekend & Johnny Appleseed Birthday Events include: Mini Cooking School, Scarecrow making contest (Sat. only), Small pumpkin decorating, Walkin' Pie Eating Contest.

Live music. No charge for event participation!

Nevada Day Free a la mode ice cream for Nevada residents.

Open Columbus Day

Veterans Day Live Music. Free a la mode ice cream for US Veterans.

3205 No. Canyon Road, Camino, CA • (530) 622-0184 • Opening July 4th Weekend For history, events and ranch features check out our website: www.kidsincapples.com

You-Pick Defines “Fresh! Local! Fun!” One of the most popular activities at Apple Hill® ranches from June through November is “YouPick”. Fun for the entire family, the You-Pick experience allows visitors to see exactly where food comes from and to enjoy fruit at its freshest. Several Apple Hill® ranches invite visitors to get into the berry vines, orchards and pumpkin patches to select the perfect fruit to take home.

Picking containers are provided so grab a bag or a bucket and get started at any of the following ranches!

June thru August

Beginning in June, berries ripen and continue through early September.

Bolster’s Hilltop Ranch and Sun Mountain Farm grow many varieties of blueberries. Pine O’Mine, Jack Russell Farm Brewery and Patrick’s Mountain Grown Berry Farm also offer You-Pick blueberries as well as blackberries and raspberries. You can also pick boysenberries, marionberries and olallieberries at Patrick’s. Additionally, blackberries are available to pick, by appointment, at Goodness Orchard.

If you want to pick cherries, Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard often has Bings, Lamberts and Raniers around Fathers’ Day. However, availability may be limited due to spring frost.

Wine FunmakFeaabcoutts One ton of grapes yard acre 60 cases. Each vine wineries at our Apple Hill® ately three produces approxim es. tons of wine grap

16

August thru October

In late August and early September, apples, pears, grapes and peaches ripen. Ranches offering You-Pick apples are Pine O’Mine, Sun Mountain Farm, Argyres Orchard, Goyette’s North Canyon Ranch, Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard, and Denver Dan’s Apple Patch. There are usually some varieties of apples to pick up until mid-to-late October. At Hangtown Kid you can also pick late peaches and Asian, Bartlett and Bosc pears. You-Pick Concord grapes are available at Argyres Orchard.

For organic You-Pick, give Goodness Orchard a call to make an appointment to pick apples, pears and peaches.

October

In October come the pumpkins and the chestnuts! McGee’s Christmas Tree Farm, Bluestone Meadow, Bolster’s Hilltop Ranch, Goyette’s North Canyon Ranch, O’Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch, Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard, Cardanini’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Ridge Farms let you pick your favorite pumpkins right off the vine. And, if you don’t mind very carefully grabbing very sharp stickery balls, you can pick your own chestnuts at Smokey Ridge Ranch (bring the gardening gloves)!

November thru December

But wait! There’s more!

In November the persimmons turn orange and are ready for you to pick. Find them at Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard and Denver Dan’s Apple Patch.

And, the Friday after Thanksgiving is the official “Opening Day” of the Apple Hill® Christmas Tree Farms.

Choose-and-cut the perfect holiday tree to decorate your home (listing page 23.) www.applehill.com

Maximize Your Experience

When preparing to come to Apple Hill® for You-Pick, it is best to visit our website, www.applehill.com, where you can thumb through the 2011 Cider Press. Here you can find out who grows what kinds, and what varieties, of fruit (CP p 18) as well as the phone numbers, and dates and hours of operation of each of our ranches (CP pp 20-21). You might even want to call your favorite ranches to check on the availability of the fruit you wish to pick, as the weather plays a big part in determining ripening dates. Get to Apple Hill® without this information?

Never fear!!

Just pick up a copy of the Cider Press at any Apple Hill® ranch.

Once in the orchard, you may notice that some of the fruit might not look as beautiful as it does in the grocery store. Here on the farm, Mother Nature is in charge. Some fruit may have sunburn or, in the case of apples, there may also be a “worm” hole. And it is usually just that – a hole (the larva of the cottling moth having long ago made his exit). The good news is that, unless you want a piece of fruit to eat out-of-hand, these imperfections usually can be easily cut around, leaving you with a juicy, flavorful fruit hand-picked at the peak of ripeness. So, go ahead and pick your perfect or not-soperfect fruit, keeping in mind that the farmer will appreciate your picking only the fruit that you wish to buy.

Apple Hill Cider Press

17

ARKANSAS BLACK BRAEBURN CAMEO CANDYCRISP EMPIRE FUJI GALA GOLDEN DELICIOUS GRANNY SMITH GRAVENSTEIN HONEYCRISP JONAGOLD JONATHON LIBERTY MCINTOSH MUTSU PAULA RED PINK LADY PIPPIN RED DELICIOUS RED GOLD ROME WINESAP ASIAN PEARS BARTLETT PEARS BOSC PEARS EL DORADO PEARS GRAPES INDIAN CORN NUTS PERSIMMONS PUMPKINS VEGETABLES

Apples & Other Fruit Guide

1. HIGH HILL RANCH

 

3. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS

           

 

  

      

5. KIDS INC









9. LARSEN APPLE BARN

 

   



   

10. RAINBOW ORCHARDS

         



  

11. BAVARIAN HILLS ORCHARD

  

13. THOMAS MOUNTAIN ORGANIC FARM



  

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

15. HANGTOWN KID APPLE ORCHARD

 

     

 

   



    

20. APPLE RIDGE FARMS

 

    

21. GOYETTE’S NORTH CANYON RANCH

 

22. ARGYRES ORCHARD 23. MILL VIEW RANCH

 







 



 









 

      

     

  

  









 

 

   

30. BARSOTTI FAMILY JUICE COMPANY











     



 

     





 

28. SUN MOUNTAIN FARM

 

     









 

Wholesale only

35. BILL’S APPLES/FELICE’S DOLLS



    

37. APPLE PANTRY FARM 38. ABEL’S APPLE ACRES

 



19. EL DORADO ORCHARDS





           

18. O’HALLORAN’S APPLE TRAIL RANCH



 

 

  

   

    

 







14. DENVER DAN’S APPLE PATCH 17. GRANDPA’S CELLAR

 

 



 

 

39. GOLDBUD FARMS



    

  



 









  

40. FUDGE FACTORY FARM



 



41. PINE O’ MINE



 



 



  

42. CARDANINI’S PUMPKIN PATCH



44. WINDMILLER FARM 45. BOLSTER’S HILLTOP RANCH

 

   



48. GOODNESS ORCHARD

 



49. MARVIN LARSEN RANCH







 

 

 

  

 

50. FENTON HERRIOTT VINEYARDS



    



56. BLUESTONE MEADOW 68. BODHAINE RANCH

 

   





 



83. McGEE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM



84. HARRIS TREE FARM

 

133. SMOKEY RIDGE FARMSTAND & CHARCUTERIE 



18

www.applehill.com

     

  







   

   

Summer Fruit and Flower Guide Varying elevations affect ripening dates. Call individual ranches for information

1.

3.

29. HIGH SIERRA IRIS AND WEDDING GARDENS 10.

36. JACK RUSSELL FARM BREWERY 15.

37. APPLE PANTRY FARM 16.

39. GOLDBUD FARMS 24.

40. FUDGE FACTORY FARM 28.

41. PINE O’ MINE 34.

45. BOLSTER’S HILLTOP RANCH 36.

46. COLLINA di MELA 39.

48. GOODNESS ORCHARD 40.

56. BLUESTONE MEADOW 41.

84. HARRIS TREE FARM 45.

133. SMOKEY RIDGE FARMSTAND AND CHARCUTERIE

y y 

y y y

y y y y

y y y y

y

y

y

y

 y

y

y

y

FARMERS’ MARKETS listing on page 11

JAMS/JELLIES



 y 

 y



y

y y y y  y y y y y

y y  y y

 y  y   y y y y  y y y  y y

y  y y   y  y  y

y

y



FROZEN

 

y y

 y

y BLUEBERRIES 

JAMS/JELLIES

  





y



  

PICK YOUR OWN

FROZEN

PICK-YOUR-OWN

FRESH-PICKED

OLIVE OIL/OLIVES

IRIS/DAYLILLIES

LAVENDER

PLUMS

NECTARINES

  HIGH HILL RANCH  BOA VISTA ORCHARDS – Open all year ** RAINBOW ORCHARDS – FM (See ad pg. 36)   APPLE  ORCHARD ** HANGTOWN KID PATRICK’S MTN. GROWN BERRY FARM **   HONEY BEAR RANCH    ** SUN MOUNTAIN FARM   WILLOW POND ORGANIC FARM  JACK RUSSELL FARM BREWERY GOLDBUD FARM   FUDGE FACTORY FARM ** PINE O’MINE  BOLSTER’S HILLTOP RANCH **

   y y y

 

FRESH PICKED

** - You Pick FM - Farmer’s Markets



Available as

BLACKBERRIES



RASPBERRIES



BLUEBERRIES



 

PLUMS



     

Berries 

NECTARINES

16. PATRICK’S MTN. GROWN BERRY FARM

28. SUN MOUNTAIN FARM

CHERRIES

Only the ranches displaying this sign are Apple Hill®

15. HANGTOWN KID APPLE ORCHARD

20. APPLE RIDGE FARMS

RASPBERRIES

Look for  the  sign  of quality 

13. THOMAS MOUNTAIN ORGANIC FARM

18. O’HALLORAN’S APPLE TRAIL RANCH



PEACHES

10. RAINBOW ORCHARDS



   Apple ® Hill Growers 

Stone fruit

CHERRIES

5. KIDS INC

PEACHES

3. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS

BLACKBERRIES

BLUEBERRIES

Summer Fruit at Apple H

y



y

 

y y

y

 y

Summer Fruit Ripening Dates* *Dates may vary depending on weather.

Please check our website at applehill.com for the link to the El Dorado County Harvest Calendar.

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

CHERRIES PEACHES NECTARINES PLUMS, PLUOTS BLUEBERRIES RASPBERRIES BLACKBERRIES

(530) 644-7692

19

Fenton ui Herriott Vineyards e Sm ith Flat Road

1. HIGH HILL RANCH

Y

3. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS

2952 Carson Road, Placerville

5. KIDS INC.

644-1973

*

Daily 9-5, year ’round.

Closed Thanksgiving & Christmas 622-5522

Y F/S/S July 4th wknd- Labor Day, F/S/S/M begins Labor Day wknd 3205 North Canyon Road, Camino www.kidsincapples.com 622-0184

*

6. MADROÑA VINEYARDS

Daily 11-5, year ’round www.MadronaVineyards.com 644-5948

2560 High Hill Road, Placerville

8. MOTHER LODE ORCHARDS

Call for info: 644-5101

4341 North Canyon Road, Camino

9. LARSEN APPLE BARN

2461 Larsen Drive, Camino

Y

Labor Day Sunday – Mid-Dec. Closed Saturdays

Bake shop: 644-8166, Barn: 644-1415

10. RAINBOW ORCHARDS

F/S/S, Sept. 2 - 11 and Nov. 25- Dec. 11

2569 Larsen Drive, Camino www.rainboworchards.info Daily, Sept. 12 - Nov. 23 644-1594

11. BAVARIAN HILLS ORCHARD

Daily 10-5, Labor Day Weekend - Dec 18 www.bavarianhills.com 642-2714

3100 North Canyon Road, Camino

12. PARAVÍ VINEYARDS

*Y

www.paravi.com

2875 Larsen Drive, Camino

647-WINE (9463)

13. THOMAS MOUNTAIN ORGANIC FARM

(no roadside sales), Aug.- Oct.

O

Corner of Larsen Drive & Hartwick Drive, Camino

14. DENVER DAN’S APPLE PATCH

4354 Bumble Bee Lane, Camino

15. HANGTOWN KID APPLE ORCHARD

644-1119

UP Daily 10-5, Sept. thru Nov 13 then F/S/S only thru Dec. 11 644-6881

Thu. - Sun. 10-5, Sept. - Nov.

UP

2598 Mace Road, Camino Call first: June-Aug., & Mon. - Wed, Sept. - Nov.: 647-1810

16. PATRICK’S MTN. GROWN BERRY FARM

4455 Pony Express Trail, Camino

17. GRANDPA’S CELLAR

UP

Daily, June - mid Dec.

647-2833

Daily, Sept. thru Nov. 23 then F/S/S thru Dec. 11

2360 Cable Road, Camino www.grandpascellar.com

20

644-2153

h Nort

5

Hillside Tree Farm

Ro ad

82

19

ad

Argyres Orchard

Bavarian Hills Orchard

11 28

21

Canyon Ro

22

Mo

Sun Mountain Farm El Dorado Orchards

Ho

Ca ny on

41

Pine Windmiller O’ Mine Farm

ay adw Bro Daily 8-5, Labor Day Weekend- Dec. 24

2901 High Hill Road, Placerville

Willow Pond Organic Farm

55

oa d

Schnell School Exit Exit 48

To Sacramento

34

rR

•

50

Carson Road

Grace Patriot Wines Goldbud Farms

44 39

38

q Jac

Apple Hill Shuttle Bus

32

90

d.

Boeger Winery

133

Abel’s Apple Acres

Fruitr i

Rapetti Farms

eR dg

Smokey Ridge Ranch Farmstand and Charcuterie

26

30

37

Goyette’s North Canyon Ranch

Barsotti Family Juice Co.

Kids Inc.

Iris and Wedding Gardens

Lava Cap Winery

56

Apple Pantry Farm

29 High Sierra

N

Bluestone Meadow

25

Wofford Acres Vineyards

r Road ssle Ha

n Vall Hidde Laneey

Look for the sign of quality!

50

Cardanini’s Pumpkin Fudge Madroña Patch Factory Vineyards Farm Ca r so High Hill nR Boa Vista Ranch oa d Orchards

rt h No

3

6

42

83

40

1

McGee Christmas Tree Farm

Cam Ex

Apple Hill Office (530) 644-7692 All phone numbers are in (530) area code 18. O’HALLORAN’S APPLE TRAIL RANCH

19. EL DORADO ORCHARDS

644-3389

Friday 10-3, Sat.-Sun. 9-5, Sept. - Nov.

2881 North Canyon Road, Camino

20. APPLE RIDGE FARMS

Sept. - Dec.

2261 Cable Road, Camino

642-1222

Weekends 9-6, Weekdays 10-5, Sept. 2 thru Nov. 13

1800 Larsen Drive, Camino

647-0613

21. GOYETTE’S NORTH CANYON RANCH UP

Weekends 9-5, mid Sept.-Nov. Weekdays by appointment: 622-9299

3825 North Canyon Road, Camino

22. ARGYRES ORCHARD UP

23. MILL VIEW RANCH

Weekends 10-4, Weekdays by appt.

Call for opening date: 644-3862

4220 North Canyon Road, Camino

Weekends 10-5, Weekdays 10-4, Sept. - Mid Dec.

2740 Cable Road, Camino

651-3446

24. HONEY BEAR RANCH

2826 Barkley Road, Camino

25 WOFFORD ACRES VINEYARDS

1900 Hidden Valley Lane, Camino

*

Closed

*

Weekends, year ’round

Weekday hours vary 626-6858

26. LAVA CAP WINERY

Daily 11-5, year ’round

2221 Fruitridge Road, Placerville

*

27. TIME OUT, A PRIVATE RESORT & SPA

2452 Apple Vista Lane, Camino

28. SUN MOUNTAIN FARM

UP

621-0175

Year ‘round, by appt:

644-0314

Wknds. 9-4 in June, & again mid Sept-early Nov.

3000 North Canyon Road, Camino www.sunmountainfarm.com Weekdays by appt: 621-3740

29. HIGH SIERRA IRIS & WEDDING GARDENS Y Garden Open Daily in May

3170 Hassler Road, Camino

May-Dec. 642-1222. www.weddingsnflowers.com

30. BARSOTTI FAMILY JUICE COMPANY

2239 Hidden Valley Lane, Camino

32. BOEGER WINERY

*

1709 Carson Road, Placerville

www.applehill.com

Wholesale Only

622-4629 Daily 10-5, year ’round

622-8094

Grower Locations & Operating Hours

23

*

2380 Larsen Drive, Camino

Rd

.

295-8090

Daily 9-5, Sept. 1 -Dec. 1

644-5283

UP

Daily 11-7, F/S until 8pm, year ’round

647-9420

TH/F/S/S 10-5

corner of North Canyon & Hassler, Camino

318-2834

Daily, Labor Day - Dec. 24 Thanksgiving: 10-1, 12/24: 9-3 626-0138

2345 Carson Road, Placerville

42. CARDANINI’S PUMPKIN PATCH UP

Oct. 1 thru Oct. 30 644-2140

44. WINDMILLER FARM

www.windmillerfarm.com

2453 Carson Road, Placerville

530-903-4462

45. BOLSTER’S HILLTOP RANCH UP 2000 Larsen Drive, Camino

120 Jacquier Court, Placerville

Daily 9-5, Labor Day Weekend - Dec 12

O

2315 Cable Road, Camino

84. HARRIS TREE FARM

www.bluestonemeadow.com

644-1686

Y

Daily 9-4:30, June thru Dec.

2640 Blair Road, Pollock Pines www.harristreefarm.com 644-2194

133. SMOKEY RIDGE FARMSTAND & CHARCUTERIE

2160 Carson Road, Placerville F/S/S, Mid Sept. - Early Nov. 626-5078

Look for the sign of quality: Only the ranches displaying this sign are Apple Hill® Growers

Christmas Tree Farms 82. HILLSIDE TREE FARM

Daily 9:30-4:30, Nov. 19 until sold out www.hillsidetreefarm.com 621-2053

2881 North Canyon Road, Camino

83. McGEE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

3131 Carson Road, Placerville

Wknds. 8-dark, Wkdys. 10-4, Nov 27 until sold out www.mcgeechristmastreefarm.com 644-4731

88. ROBERTS CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

www.goodnessorchard.com.

Mid Sept. - Mid Jan.

*

50. FENTON HERRIOTT VINEYARDS Y

Weekends, Oct. 1 thru Oct. 30

UP

By appt. only, June-Nov.

O

4341 Pony Express Trail, Camino 2721 Mace Road, Camino

68. BODHAINE RANCH

Mon-Wed call for appt., Thurs-Sun 11-5

www.gracepatriotwines.com 642-8424

87. ROBERTS CHRISTMAS TREE FARM

49. MARVIN LARSEN RANCH

2025 Carson Road, Placerville

*

Daily, June-Aug. & Sept. 20 to Thanksgiving

Wknds., Sept. 1-19 & Nov. 26 - Dec. 12 644-2230

48. GOODNESS ORCHARD UP

530-344-0288

2655 High Hill Rd. Placerville

•

Pollock Pines Exit 57

56. BLUESTONE MEADOW

644-3492

www.pineomine.com for hours

50

Daily, Labor Day to mid-Dec.

2620 Carson Road, Placerville

88

To Lake Tahoe

55. GRACE PATRIOT WINES 2701 Carson Road, Placerville

626-6521

2860 High Hill Rd., Placerville

Roberts Christmas Tree Farm

Apple Hill® information: www.applehill.com

Open July 15

2501 Carson Road, Placerville

ress Trail

Marvin Larsen Ranch

84

o ad ir R Bla

Dr. il e

2234 Cable Road, Camino

xp

Harris Tree Farm

P.O. Box 494, Camino, CA 95709 e-mail: info@applehill.com

41. PINE O’ MINE UP

E Pony

Goodness Orchard

Thurs-Sun 10-5, June-Aug

O

40. FUDGE FACTORY FARM

O’Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch Bodhaine Ranch

Apple Hill Shuttle Bus

2731 Jacquier Road, Placerville Daily 10-5, Sept.-mid Nov.

39. GOLDBUD FARMS

68

49

18

Cedar Grove Exit 54

38. ABEL’S APPLE ACRES

16

15

89

*

Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard

Crystal Creek Tree Farm

Patrick’s Mtn. Grown Berry Farm

Mt. Danaher Rd.

•

HARVEST RUN

37. APPLE PANTRY FARM

48

Apple Ridge Farms

M

36. JACK RUSSELL FARM BREWERY

ick

d R oa Cab le

12

ParaVí Vineyards

35. BILL’S APPLES / FELICE’S DOLLS

Ha rtw

20

Mill View Ranch

34. WILLOW POND ORGANIC FARM

17

45

10

Carson Road

mino xit

14

87

Rd. ore Gilm

Larsen Apple Barn Rainbow Orchards

35

Bolster’s Hilltop Grandpa’s Cellar Ranch

Denver Dan’s Apple Patch

rse La

ley ark

Larsen Drive

ive n Dr

Ro ad

24

B

9

Apple Hill Office (information)

13

Bill’s Apples/ Felice’s Dolls

– Legend – l - Best Apple Hill® Exits Open Year ’round - Christmas tree farm - Bakeshop - Winery UP - You Pick O - Organic Y- Weddings

Roberts Christmas Tree Farm

Mace Road

oney Bear Ranch

36

Apple

8

other Lode Orchards

a Vista L

ne

Jack Russell Farm Brewery

Ei gh t

27

Thomas Mountain Organic Farm

Cable Road

Time Out A Private Resort & Spa

644-2475/ 644-1396 Daily 11-5, year ’round www.fentonherriott.com 642-2021

2561 Mace Road, Camino

5645 Gilmore Road, Pollock Pines

89. CRYSTAL CREEK TREE FARM

2019 Cable Road, Camino

90. RAPETTI FARMS

Y

2585 Fruitridge Road, Camino

(530) 644-7692

Daily 9:30 - 4:30, Day after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve. 644-2831 Daily 9:30 - 4:30, Day after Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve. 644-2831 Daily 10 am to dusk, Nov. 19 thru Dec. 24

644-4647 • 644-7014

Daily 9:30 to dark, Nov. 19 until sold out

622-7229

21

22

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YOU PICK

NATURE WALK

PICNIC AREA

LUNCH

GIFT PACKS

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EDUCATIONAL TOURS

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BUS PARKING

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LAVENDER

HONEY

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DRIED FRUIT

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CARAMEL APPLES

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APPLE BUTTER

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FRITTERS

1. HIGH HILL RANCH 3. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS 5. KIDS INC 6. MADROÑA VINEYARDS 9. LARSEN APPLE BARN 10. RAINBOW ORCHARDS 11. BAVARIAN HILLS ORCHARD 12. PARAVÍ VINEYARDS 13. THOMAS MOUNTAIN ORGANIC FARM 14. DENVER DAN’S APPLE PATCH 15. HANGTOWN KID APPLE ORCHARD 16. PATRICK’S MTN. GROWN BERRY FARM 17. GRANDPA’S CELLAR 18. O’HALLORAN’S APPLE TRAIL RANCH 19. EL DORADO ORCHARDS 20. APPLE RIDGE FARMS 21. GOYETTE’S NORTH CANYON RANCH 22. ARGYRES ORCHARD 23. MILL VIEW RANCH 25. WOFFORD ACRES VINEYARDS 26. LAVA CAP WINERY 27. TIME OUT, A PRIVATE RESORT & SPA 28. SUN MOUNTAIN FARM 29. HIGH SIERRA IRIS AND WEDDING GARDENS 30. BARSOTTI FAMILY JUICE COMPANY 32. BOEGER WINERY 35. BILL’S APPLES/FELICE’S DOLLS 36. JACK RUSSELL FARM BREWERY 37. APPLE PANTRY FARM 38. ABEL’S APPLE ACRES 39. GOLDBUD FARMS 40. FUDGE FACTORY FARM 41. PINE O’ MINE 42. CARDANINI’S PUMPKIN PATCH 44. WINDMILLER FARM 45. BOLSTER’S HILLTOP RANCH 48. GOODNESS ORCHARD 49. MARVIN LARSEN RANCH 50. FENTON HERRIOTT VINEYARDS 56. BLUESTONE MEADOW 68. BODHAINE RANCH 83. McGEE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 84. HARRIS TREE FARM 89. CRYSTAL CREEK TREE FARM 90. RAPETTI FARMS 133. SMOKEY RIDGE FARMSTAND & CHARCUTERIE

DOUGHNUTS

Product and Attractions Guide

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www.weddingsnflowers.com Wholesale only

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pumpkins

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www.timeoutspa.com

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www.windmillerfarm.com

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Apple Hill Cider Press

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MISTLETOE

SEQUOIA

PINE

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82. HILLSIDE TREE FARM 83. McGEE CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 87. ROBERTS CHRISTMAS TREE FARM (Mace Rd.) 88. ROBERTS CHRISTMAS TREE FARM (gilmore Rd.) 89. CRYSTAL CREEK TREE FARM 90. RAPETTI FARMS 3. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS 5. KIDS INC 8. MOTHER LODE ORCHARDS 18. O’HALLORAN’S APPLE TRAIL RANCH 29. HIGH SIERRA IRIS AND WEDDING GARDENS 40. FUDGE FACTORY FARM 49. MARVIN LARSEN RANCH 84. HARRIS TREE FARM

CANAAN

BLUE SPRUCE

Christmas Tree Guide

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Apple Hill® Grower Advertiser Index Advertiser

Phone

Abel’s Apple Acres Apple Ridge Farms Barsotti Family Juice Company Bavarian Hills Orchard Bill’s Apples & Felice’s Dolls Boa Vista Orchards Bodhaine Ranch Boeger Winery Crystal Creek Tree Farm Denver Dan’s Apple Patch Fenton Herriott Vineyards Fudge Factory Farm Goodness Orchard Grandpa’s Cellar Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard High Hill Ranch Kids Inc Larsen Apple Barn Lava Cap Winery Madroña Vineyards Marvin Larsen Ranch Mill View Ranch O’Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch ParaVí Vineyards Patrick’s Mountain Grown Berry Farm Pine O’ Mine Rainbow Orchards Smokey Ridge Ranch Farmstand & Charcuterie Time Out, A Private Resort & Spa Wofford Acres Vineyards

(530) 626-0138 www.abelsappleacres.com/info@abelsappleacres.com (530) 647-0613 www.appleridgepies.com (530) 622-4629 www.BarsottiJuice.com (530) 642-2714 www.bavarianhills.com/b31485@internet49.com (530) 644-5283 (530) 622-5522 www.boavista.com/appleman@boavista.com (530) 644-1686 (530) 622-8094 www.boegerwinery.com (530) 644-4647/644-7014 (530) 644-6881 www.denverdansapplepatch.com (530) 642-2021 www.fentonherriott.com (530) 644-3492 www.fudgefactoryfarm.com (530) 644-6448 www.goodnessorchard.com (530) 644-2153 www.grandpascellar.com (530) 647-1810 (530) 644-1973 highhillranch@att.net (530) 622-0184 www.kidsincapples.com (530) 644-1415/(530) 644-8166 (530) 621-0175/(800) 475-0175 www.Lavacap.com (530) 644-5948/(800) 230-7662 www.MadronaVineyards.com (530) 644-1396/(530) 644-2475 (530) 651-3446 (530) 644-3389 (530) 647-WINE (9463) www.paravi.com (530) 647-2833 www.PatricksMountainGrown.com (530) 344-0288 www.pineomine.com/pineomine@comcast.net (530) 644-1594 www.rainboworchards.info (530) 626-5078 www.smokeyridgeranch.com (530) 644-0314 www.timeoutspa.com (530) 626-6858 www.wavwines.com

Web/e-mail Address

(530) 644-7692

Page # 26 17 12 29 11, 39 28 39 25 39 29 25 6 39 10, 39 39 7 15 35 25 25 39 39 36, 39 25 39 14 37 14 34 25

23

B B B

B B

B B

B

B

B B B

B B

B B B

B

B B

B

B B B B B

B

B B B

B

B B B B B B B B

B B B

ZINFANDEL

B B B

B

WHITE BLENDS

PINO NOIR

PINOT GRIS

B

RIESLING

B B B B B B B B

RED BLENDS

6. MADROÑA VINEYARDS 12. PARAVÍ VINEYARDS 25. WOFFORD ACRES VINEYARDS 26. LAVA CAP WINERY 32. BOEGER WINERY 50. FENTON HERRIOTT VINEYARDS 3. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS 10. RAINBOW ORCHARDS

PETITE SIRAH

Approximate used to of wine grapes are wine. of e ttl make one bo

MERLOT

Wine Fulyn2.8Fpoauncdsts

B

VIOGNIER

B

B

B

TEMPRANILLO

B

SAUV. /FUMÉ BLANC

B

SANGIOVESE

B B

B B B

B B

B B B

SYRAH

B

B

SEMILLION

B

RASPBERRY BEER

B B

MATARO/MOURVEDRE

B

HARD CIDER

DESSERT WINES

B

GRENACHE

CHARDONNAY

B B

B

GEWÜRZTRAMINER

CABERNET SAUV.

BLUEBERRY BEER

BLACKBERRY BEER

BARBERA

CABERNET FRANC

6. MADROÑA VINEYARDS 12. PARAVÍ VINEYARDS 25. WOFFORD ACRES VINEYARDS 26. LAVA CAP WINERY 32. BOEGER WINERY 36. JACK RUSSELL FARM BREWERY 50. FENTON HERRIOTT VINEYARDS 1. HIGH HILL RANCH 3. BOA VISTA ORCHARDS 10. RAINBOW ORCHARDS

APPLE WINE

APPLE BEER

Wine and Beer Guide

B

B

B

B B B B

B B B

B B

Fun-Facts from the Apple Hill® Wine Trail The Apple Hill® Growers Association has 6 premium wineries in its membership and all are open year ’round for your wine-tasting explorations. The first modern-day winery to open in the Apple Hill® area was Boeger Winery in 1974.

Madroña Vineyards was second to open, opening in 1981, while Lava Cap opened in 1986. Happily, Madroña celebrates its 30th Anniversary this year while Lava Cap enjoys a Silver Celebration (25th).

Fenton Herriott Vineyards, ParaVí Vineyards and Wofford Acres Vineyards are the youngest in our Apple Hill® Growers Association, opening in 2003.

24

All of these wineries, with the exception of Madroña, have fun kid-zones (indoor or outdoor play areas) to keep the children occupied while the adults decide which wines to buy. Picnics are also welcome at the wineries in Apple Hill.

Apple Hill® wineries and their vineyards are in a mountain setting at elevations above the valley fog. Our wine grapes cool by the cool mountain air rather than gray fog. This allows them more sun exposure resulting in more even-growing times.

California has more Chardonnay grapes than any place in the world. The Apple Hill Cider Press

top-selling white wine at Lava Cap Winery and at Madroña Vineyards is Chardonnay. Zinfandel is the top-selling red wine at these two Apple Hill® wineries plus at ParaVí Vineyards. Wofford Acres Vineyards has a top-selling Rhone blend with Zinfandel, and Fenton Herriott has a very popular Syrah. The most popular wines during the fall season are: Madroña Vineyard’s Fiore (Muscat), Lava Cap Winery’s Muscat Canelli, Wofford Acres Vineyard’s Rosé (from Syrah), Boeger’s Sauvignon Blanc, ParaVí’s Zinfandel and Fenton Herriott’s Sangiovese and Gewürztraminer

V

isit the Apple Hill® Family Wineries – Madroña Vineyards A California tradition.

What’s more fun than getting into wine?

At Madroña, the second generation of the Bush family respects the old ways, yet is constantly upping the ante. From the vineyards to the cellar, we make wines we like to drink! 2560 High Hill Road, Camino, CA (530) 644-5948.

MadronaVineyards.com. Open daily, 11-5.

Wofford Acres Vineyards “Come for the wine and stay for the view!” Taste the wines we have proudly given our name and enjoy our picnic area overlooking the American River Canyon. 1900 Hidden Valley Lane, Camino, CA (530) 626-6858. wavwines.com. Open weekends year ’round. Please call or check website for weekday hours.

Wofford Acres

Schnell School Road

oad nR

Madroña Car

son

Fenton Herriott

50

High Hill Road

Roa

Barkley Road

d

d oa eR

oad uier ge R Jacq lat

th F Smi

h Nort Cany

North Can yo

idg i tr ru

Rid

Boeger

Time Out Spa

Valley Lane

a Ro

F

Uni on

Hidden

on

Enjoy Lava Cap’s elegant wines and beautiful views, perhaps relaxing with a picnic on our deck. We offer distinctive premium red and white wines for purchase as well as gourmet deli items. Mini-tours ler Road a ss H of our wine cellar available by request.

2221 Fruitridge Road, Placerville, CA (530) 621-0175. Lavacap.com.

Lava Cap Open daily, 11am-5pm.

d

Jack Russell Brewery

n Road rse La

Larsen Road

Lava Cap Winery

ParaVí

CAMINO Carson Road Exit

Camino Exit

ParaVí Vineyards Boeger Winery Come to historic Boeger Winery and enjoy complimentary tasting of our award winning wines. Bring a picnic and take advantage of our beautifully landscaped picnic areas. Visit our website for wines, tours and event information.

1709 Carson Rd., Placerville, CA (530) 622-8094. boegerwinery.com.

Open daily, 10-5.

Fenton Herriott Vineyards Enjoy our award winning wines, handcrafted to develop intense flavors, complexity, and distinction. Let yourself unwind in our picnic area aside the vines. 120 Jacquier Ct, Placerville, CA (530) 642-2021. fentonherriott.com.

Open daily, 11-5.

Carefully producing small batches of premium wines, ParaVí Vineyards delivers a unique blend of Apple Hill® charm with Boutique Wine artistry. You are encouraged to linger and enjoy the vineyard valley view and savor our four varietals. Please visit our website for our schedule of special events and seasonal hours.

2875 Larsen Drive, Camino, CA (530) 647-WINE (647-9463). paravi.com

2011 Norma Brubaker Scholarship Recipients

TM

Open Daily - Labor Day Weekend Through Christmas Eve.

offers 12 kinds of pies; Apple Strudel, Dumplings, Crisp, DoNuts, Fritters, Breads, Cakes, and Cookies... enjoy our Custom Country Fudge, carmallows, Caramel Apples, Turtles, and more... is filled with Apple Butter, Sauce, Marmalade and Cider Sauce.

Horse/Pony Rides*, Hay Maze*, Craft Fair *Weather Permitting

Abel’s Cafe & BBQ, Patio & Deck, Pond/Picnic Areas, Pumpkin Patch, Gift Store, Kids Booknook

Visit Our Online Country Store Year ‘Round email: info@abelsappleacres.com

2345 Carson Road Placerville, CA

Ph: (530) 626-0138 We Have Indoor Restrooms & Ample Parking!

26

EXIT 48

With each new issue of the Cider Press, the Apple Hill® Growers look forward to announcing the two Norma Brubaker Scholarship winners. The scholarships are given to county students who have excelled in academics and community service.

Agricultural interests and work at member ranches are also considered when selecting the recipients.

In addition to recognizing academic excellence & community service, these scholarships also honor the memory of an indispensible friend of the organization. In the early years, Norma Brubaker was the glue that made the Apple Hill® Growers Association stronger. She knew everyone, understood what they needed and made sure members reaped every possible benefit from the organization.

The membership wasn’t sure how it could function after she passed away, but Norma helped lay a foundation that flourishes to this day.

How better to recognize her invaluable contribution?

With added help from the Brubaker family, the Apple Hill® Growers were proud to award scholarships for the 2010-2011 offers school year to the following students: Sam Bolster – If the name is familiar, there’s a good reason.

Sam is the grandson of Gene Bolster, one of the founders of the Apple Hill® Growers Association. He grew up helping with the family farm -- Bolster’s Hilltop Ranch. He worked in the cider mill and helped with parking and selling fruit at the ranch. For five years he also raised and socialized puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind. All the while he was an outstanding student at El Dorado High School with a goal of majoring in Anthropology at the University of Nevada, Reno.

Early on Sam developed a love for bicycle racing and has participated in many races and won a number of awards. He continues to race at the collegiate level at UNR and hopes to compete in professional cycling after graduation and to eventually become a Pro-Tour rider in Europe.

After his racing career is over he plans to return to the archeological world and “get his hands dirty”.

Stephanie Rouse – Stephanie plans to study medicine with a goal of becoming a surgeon, and is a student at UC Berkeley. While at El Dorado High School, she was a member of the California Scholarship Federation and president of Interact, a Rotarysponsored community service club. She also served on the El Dorado County Youth Commission, working with the county Board of Supervisors to promote youth governance in the community. Additionally, she took three years of drama classes which included participation in six shows and traveling to the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland with the school drama department.

Stephanie also found time to work for eight years with 4-H market-lamb and market-goat projects while serving as president of her 4-H club for three of those years. In addition, she worked seasonally at Smokey Ridge Ranch in Apple Hill®.

“Free time activities?” you ask. Of course! She is the violinist in a rock/bluegrass band and performs at local events and fundraisers.

Apple Hill Cider Press

Camino School benefits from Apple Hill® Harvest Run What began as an earnest attempt by every aspect of the race although the tight economy, schools no longer have the Apple Hill® Growers to convince busiest day, of course, is race day funds to pay for the extras that enhance visitors that the season didn’t close at the November 6th this year. That’s when the the learning experience. As one parent end of October has evolved into one of army of volunteers does everything from said, “Many Camino School programs the most popular family races in handing out race packets to answering a wouldn’t happen without funds from the Image Factory – (530) 622-4524 fax/phone Northern California. The growers orgamyriad of questions from race particirace because we’re a small school district nized every aspect of the race at first, but pants. The race continues to be support- with declining enrollment. Our district is they a proof ofed your 2009 Cider Press ad. Please it carefully after over a decade of hardThis work, by the Apple Hill® Growers who checkonly has funds for the basics. School is and let us know if any corrections are needed.

Once you’ve looked it than ABCs and 123s.” realized the race provide the race site, so much more over please fax a signed copy and with your instructions.

Please call had outgrown their all race prizes and The Parent Teacher Organization with questionspage regarding ad. Thank Seeany previous for your donate capabilities and they time you. and serfunds the entire transportation costs for found the support vices toward making all school educational field trips which the 2010 scholarship Ad is OKAY as is - No corrections area needed. they needed in the run successful come to over $8000 annually. A yearly winners – Sam Bolster Camino School. continuing event. garden program costs $10,000. Visual Ad is OKAY with Corrections listed In the case of The Apple Hill® and Performing Arts such as a poetry and Stephanie Rouse.

Camino School, it Harvest Run has contest, spelling bee, talent show and sciAd needs corrections – new proof needed not only “takes a grown to the point ence fair all are funded by race proceeds. village” to organize the annual Apple where it is able to fund a number of pro- Over $2000 goes to an annual week-long Hill® Harvest Run, but also well over grams at Camino Elementary School 6th grade science camp in Fort Bragg.

100 parents, school staff and students. through the Parent-Teacher Organization The Apple Hill® Harvest Run not Authorized has Signature(PTO). The race also allows the growers Date This dedicated group of volunteers only impacts every student in the been in charge for 15 years and 2011 to award two significant annual scholarschool, but the combined efforts of will be the 32nd anniversary of the race. ships to area high school seniors.

Camino School and the Apple Hill® About ten parents work throughout Camino School has a student body of Growers prove what a truly caring the year on planning and improving approximately 435 children. With a community Camino is.

32nd Annual Apple Hill ® Harvest Run • Sunday, November 6, 2011 Registration forms available at

www.applehillrun.org or at the following locations:

®

Apple Hill Grower Ranches • Camino School or by mail at P.O. Box 494 Camino, CA 95709 CallHotline: (916) 492-8966 for information Race (530) 644-4552 ext. 234 Benefitting Camino School!

Pre-Registration Perks: Special Rates, Special Drawings, Guaranteed AHHR T-shirt All race activities begin and end at ParaVí - #12 on the Apple Hill® map.

Race Day registration: 7 am

Race Director - Rich Hanna of Capital Road Race Management

THANK YOU

• 1/2 mile Kids’ Run 8:30 am • 8.5 mile Run 8:50 am • 3.5 mile Run 9:00 am • 3.5 mile Run/Walk 9:05 am

TO LAST YEAR’S SPONSORS:

Apple Hill® Growers

Core Logic

Image Factory

Argyres Orchard

EDC Search & Rescue

Kids Inc.

Barsotti Juice Company

EDC Sheriff

Larsen Apple Barn

ParaVí Vineyards

SMUD

Boa Vista Orchards

El Dorado Disposal

Lava Cap Winery

Pecota Construction

The Buzz Oates

Bolster's Hilltop Ranch

El Dorado Savings Bank

Les Schwab Tires

Rainbow Orchards

Camino Food Store

Finance One Mortgage

Max Muscle

The Russells-

G & O Body Shop

Mountain Democrat

Ty and Marysue

Walmart - Placerville

High Hill Ranch

New Balance

Coldwell Banker

Wilkinson Portables

Capital Road Race Management

O'Halloran's Apple Trail Ranch

For sponsorship or registration information visit www.applehillrun.org Apple Hill Cider Press

Shepherd Family Chiropractic

Group of Companies Thompson’s Auto Center

Wofford Acres Vineyards

27

Book Review:

Real Food from Farmers Markets

Author: Joanne Neft with Laura Kenny

Reviewed by Robyn Delfino Wow! What a treasure to add to any recipe collection. In Real Food, the authors prepare a weekly meal for eight guests using fresh, in-season ingredients purchased locally at farmers’ markets in Placer County. The mouth-watering illustrations and combination of ingredients will undoubtedly make you want to head to your local farmers’ market and begin your own cycle of seasonal cooking.

Imagine in the Winter, your house filled with the aromas of stews, soups and recipes made with root and winter vegetables. In the Spring, fresh strawberries and vegetables like asparagus and baby carrots grace your table. By Summer, you’ll be enjoying blueberry and blackberry desserts along with all those great summer veggie salads. Throughout Fall, your

table will be graced with apple, persimmon, and fig favorites.

The collection of recipes is not only for

fruit and vegetable lovers. There are also many recipes like “Pan Seared Swordfish with Citrus Relish”, and “Barbecued Leg of Lamb with Grilled Walla Walla Onions and Fennel”. Keep in mind that the authors found all the recipe meats at local farmers’ markets where wholesome, grassfed, pasture-raised chickens, lamb and beef were purchased.

Author Joanne Neft makes a strong case for knowing and trusting the people who produce the food you prepare for your family and friends. She encourages her readers to take pleasure in the art of preparing meals from the freshest and most flavorful ingredients and serving those meals family-style in order to share in conversation and gain mental and physical nourishment. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s warm-hearted commentary and her obvious passion for local farming and healthy living.

Apples • Asian Pears • Pears • Peaches • Nectarines • Plums • Cherries • Cider Blackberries • Blueberries • Wine Tasting • Bakery • Pantry • Arts Crafts (fall season) 2952 Carson Rd. • Placerville, CA 95667 • (530)622-5522 • appleman@boavista.com • www.boavista.com 28

Apple Hill Cider Press

Still a Free Ride From Exits 48 and 54!

The Apple Hill® Growers and El Dorado Transit are teaming up again this year to provide a free alternative to driving your car on the busiest harvest weekends. Review the following information to plan your shuttle trip.

• Two shuttle route options, RED route and GREEN route, are shown on the map (pages 20 and 21.)

The RED route, serving western ranches, will offer parking and board passengers at Schnell School. Schnell School is accessed by Highway 50 at Exit #48 and signs from both east and west will direct drivers to the Schnell School parking lot.

The GREEN route, serving eastern ranches, will offer parking and board passengers at the US Forest Service Ranger Station located at Eight Mile Rd. The Ranger Station is accessed by Highway 50 at Exit # 54 and signs from both east and west will direct drivers to the Forest Service Ranger Station parking lot.

• Riders may access BOTH western and eastern ranches by taking advantage of TRANSFER POINTS between the two routes. TRANSFER STOPS for both RED and GREEN routes are located at Rainbow Orchards on Saturdays and Sundays and at Larsen’s Apple Barn on Sundays only.

• The shuttle will run on the following weekends, weather permitting: October 1st and 2nd, October 8th and 9th, October

15th and 16th, October 22nd and 23rd.

• The hours of operation are 10 AM to 5 PM (weather permitting).

• Buses are scheduled to arrive every 15-20 minutes.

The Apple Hill® Shuttle is sponsored in part by the El Dorado County Air Quality Management District, El Dorado Transit, and the Apple Hill® Growers Association. The shuttle service is free and allows visitors to relax, enjoy the scenery, and “leave the driving to El Dorado Transit”.

Your local agent specializing in farms, ranches, vineyards & wineries

Understanding the insurance needs of our clients is vital 2514 Cameo Drive Cameron Park 95682 motherlodeinsurance.com • DOI #0C13447 • 530.677.8755 • 800.677.8181

WELCOME TO

Denver Dan’s 35 Varieties of U-Pick Apples – plus

Jams & jellies, Desserts, Pies,

11   

Vinegars, Picnic Area, Samples, Apple Crisp Sundae Specialty,

• Bake Shop • Restaurant & Deli •

Gifts & More!

Fresh or Frozen Apple Pies • Gourmet Pastries Home Cooked German & American Food

• Bring your children for Cookin’ Kids – lots of fun!

• DAILY LUNCH SPECIALS 10-5 • Indoor Dining or Patio Dining

• Check our fundraisers for your school or charity, etc.

• Come see Sara’s animals & Big Al on weekends.

14

See website for more information.

(530) 644-6881 4354 Bumble Bee Lane, Camino

www.denverdansapplepatch.com



   

 

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 

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  



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



Apple Hill Cider Press

Banquet Facilities Available

Visit the Apple Haus

Apples, Pears, Plums, Cider, Caramel Apples, Hot Prezels, Hawaiian Snow Cones

Homemade Crafts Weekends and Holidays

Octoberfest

- Live Music Call for Dates

Daily 10 - 5, Sept. 3 to mid-Dec. see page 20

3100 N. Canyon Road, Camino, CA bavarianhills.com • email b31485@internet49.com

(530) 642-2714

29

Remembering …

Joan Barton Barsotti Oct. 22, 1939—August 29, 2010 Joan Barton Barsotti was a leading lady of Apple Hill®. Joan had said she “loved this town, loved the people in it, and truly enjoyed being part of everything it has to offer.” Joan was active in 17 community organizations, serving on the boards of the Apple Hill® Growers, Snowline Hospice, Court Appointed Special Advocates of El Dorado County, Gold Country Retirement Community and actively participating in the Camino Writers’ Association and the Shakespeare Club.

Joan was born in Vancouver, British Columbia and graduated from UC Berkeley where she met Gael Barsotti and married in 1963. Along with their three young children they moved to Apple Hill® in 1976. In the early days of the Barsotti ranch Joan’s hands-on role in the operation included driving forklifts and tractors, unloading trucks, and hauling fruit. Joan was a vital partner in the development of Barsotti Juice Company over the years.

Joan was a celebrated author of children’s books, including Okei-san: The Girl from Wakamatsu based on the true story of a Japanese girl who came to California in 1869 to work at the Wakamatsu Tea Colony, a failed Japanese settlement at Gold Hill near Coloma. She won a Silver Award for Grandmother’s Bell and the Wagon Train 1849 at the 1997 Sacramento Publishers’ Association Book Awards. Joan especially enjoyed sharing herself and her books by reading to children in area schools and at Apple Hill® ranches.

Joan is remembered as a cherished friend, wife, mother, and as a very special grandmother to six grandchildren. Joan was involved and active to the end in the Apple Hill® Growers – she never retired from the Association.

Janet Stephanie Bethell April 22, 1959—June 9, 2010 One of the original “Apple Hill® Kids”, Janet Bethell grew up on the family’s farm, Mother Lode Orchards, where her father and mother, Dick Bethell and Karen Bye, were founding members of the Apple Hill® Growers Association.

Janet attended Camino Elementary School and El Dorado High School. She left the “hill” to play college basketball on scholarship and graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno. She returned and worked locally as a journalist and teacher. She made her home in Pollock Pines where she and her husband, Arnold, cared for their grandson, Ashton, as their own. During a lengthy illness, Janet volunteered for numerous experimental treatments for Ocular Melanoma in the hope of facilitating a cure for other victims of the disease.

“Jany” was a friend to many of the “second” generation of Apple Hill® Growers. She was proud of her agricultural heritage and cherished her childhood experience growing up as part of the Apple Hill® gang of kids.

30 30

Karen Hanson Bye Jan. 31, 1931—Dec. 5, 2010 Karen Hanson Bye was a “Founding Mother” of Apple Hill®. Karen moved to Placerville in 1953 and she, along with her husband Dick Bethell, were the original founders of Mother Lode Orchards.

Karen was born in Oakland, California, and graduated from Sacramento State College. Moving to El Dorado County, she became a proud “local”. She was a dedicated educator teaching and leading in area public schools for more than thirty years. In retirement Karen continued working with youth by helping to start and sustain the local chapter of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). She was also a founding member and supporter of the Camino Community Action Committee (CCAC). She was a keeper of knowledge and a teller of stories about the history of the town of Camino and its legacy as a logging town.

Karen will be fondly remembered by her family of friends in Apple Hill®, and in the community, as a local who had the gift of “always sharing a cold drink, a good story, and a good laugh”.

Clarise Gough Larsen Dec. 18, 1918—June 28, 2010 Clarise Larsen was a “Founding Mother” of Apple Hill®. Clarise was born in Idaho Falls, Idaho. She graduated from Pacific Union College in 1941 and taught elementary school for several years. In 1959 she married Raymond Larsen and moved to Camino to become part of the Larsen Apple Barn family.

Clarise helped organize the original Apple Hill® Smorgy and she opened one of the first bakeshops in Apple Hill®. She was instrumental in the creation of the Apple Hill® Cookbooks series. Apple Hill® Cookbook Volume One “is dedicated to CLARISE LARSEN for all her efforts in making it such a success”. She and Raymond established the Larsen Pioneer Farm Museum and personally welcomed visitors to the museum each harvest season. She was an active member of the Camino Seventh-day Adventist Church for 51 years.

Clarise leaves behind a significant legacy of contributions to the Apple Hill® Growers Association. Visitors, friends, and family cherish memories of the smells and tastes of the baked goods from her little red kitchen and her warm hospitality at the Larsen Apple Barn and the Pioneer Farm Museum.

Apple Hill Cider Press www.applehill.com

Amid the Towering Pines

5940 Pony Express Trail, Pollock Pines 530.644.2029

bestwesterncalifornia.com/pollockpines.htm

Lodging & Dining Guide

Best Western Stagecoach Inn

Area Lodging & Dining

Please support the businesses that support us So many visitors ask us, “Can you recommend a good place to eat in the area?”

This question comes mostly on days when our growers aren’t serving lunch or when visitors are heading to dinner. Another common question is, “Where, locally, can we spend the night so we can come back to visit more ranches tomorrow?”

It’s with these questions in mind that we would like to highly recommend the establishments listed below (for Apple Hill® ranches serving lunch, see page 34).

Buttercup Pantry

Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner Family owned and operated for 25 years

222 Main Street • 530-621-1320 buttercuppantryhangtown.com

Lodging Best Western Placerville Inn: For all of your Business & Leisure Lodging Needs 6850 Greenleaf Drive, Placerville, CA 95667 (530) 622-9100 • www.bwplacervilleinn.com Best Western Stagecoach Inn: Amid the Towering Pines 5940 Pony Express Trail, Pollock Pines 530-644-2029 www.bestwesterncalifornia.com/pollockpines.htm

Eden Vale Inn B&B

A Destination of Rustic Sophistication

1780 Springvale Rd. • 866-914-8445 www.EdenValeInn.com

Eden Vale Inn: A Luxury Bed & Breakfast A Destination of Rustic Sophistication 1780 Springvale Rd., Placerville 866-914-8445 • www.EdenValeInn.com

HeyDay Café & Wine Bar: California Cuisine – Lunch & Dinner 325 Main Street, Placerville 530-626-9700 • www.heydaycafe.com

Historic Cary House Hotel: Historic. Elegant. Romantic. Since 1857 300 Main Street, Placerville 530-622-4271 • www.caryhouse.com/apple

Hog Wild BBQ: Lunch & Dinner Indoor & Outdoor Dining & Take Out 38 Main Street Placerville 530-622-3883 • www.hogwildbbqca.com

Dining

The Independent Restaurant and Bar: Serving American Fusion – Lunch & Dinner 629 Main Street, Ste. 102, Placerville 530-344-7527 • www.IndependentPlacerville.com

Buttercup Pantry: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner 222 Main Street, Placerville 530-621-1320 • buttercuppantryhangtown.com

Sequoia: More than just a Restaurant 643 Bee Street, Placerville 530-622-5222 • www.sequoiaplacerville.com

Forester Pub & Grill: American and German Food, Lunch & Dinner 4110 Carson Road, Camino (530) 644-1818 • www.foresterpub.com

Zia’s: An Italian Gelato, Caffé and Wine Bar 312 Main Street, Placerville 530-642-ZIAS (9427) • www.ziasgelato.com

An Italian Gelato, Caffé and Wine Bar

312 Main Street Fountain Plaza Downtown Placerville 530.642.ZIAS (9427)|www.ziasgelato.com

To advertise on this page please contact Apple Hill® Growers at (530) 644-7692 or info@applehill.com, December 2011 through January 2012, for inclusion in the 2012 issue

(530) Apple Hill644-7692 Cider Press

31 31

Discover Historic

Image Factory – (530) 622-4524 fax/phone

Placerville Downtown

of of your Cider Press Oldest2011 Hardware Store West ofad. the Please Mississippicheck it carefully ow if any441 corrections are needed. Once you’veFind looked Main Street • 530-622-1151 linksit to all these downtown businesses on the applehill.com web site ax a signed copy and with your instructions. Please call stions regarding your ad. Thank you. western shoot-out and more. The hat’s new on Main Street?

KAY as is - No corrections are needed.

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s corrections – new proof needed

Heyday Café & Wine Bar Lunch & Dinner - California Cuisine Date Over 40 wines by the glass 325 Main Street • 530-626-9700 www.heydaycafe.com

ature

Historic Cary House Hotel

Historic. Elegant. Romantic. Since 1857

300 Main Street • 530.622.4271

W

Wagon Train will roll down Main Street The Placerville Downtown around 2pm en route from the Association has several new Broadway Village festivities to its final or enhanced projects in the works that destination and party on Placerville celebrate this unique community. New this year is the Oktoberfest, planned for Drive. And Moonlight Madness on Main, a new shopping event, is schedSeptember 17th. This event will feature German music (complete with Chicken uled for the evening of August 27th.

On a “higher” Dance!), Wiener level, the Placerville Dog Races, Barrel Art on Parade orga(keg) Races, and of With so many exciting nization is hosting course - beer, bratwurst and sauerevents and beautification their successful “Banners On kraut! This event activities being planned, Parade” community promises to put a smile on everyone’s there is a lot to see and art project for the fifth year! Look up face! To celebrate celebrate in Placerville. to see these beautiand welcome the ful works of art on Highway 50 Wagon the light poles along Train on June 11th, Main Street will add some new activities Main Street. The beautiful banners will debut on Historic Main Street in June that include a BBQ Rib Cook-Off (samand be exhibited until mid- October, pling, too), music by The Twilight Drifters, Studebaker Wheelbarrow Races when they will be taken down and sold at a Silent Auction during the October (sponsored by Placerville Kiwanis), a

www.caryhouse.com/apple

Pampering Pickle

Goodies & Gifts for Dogs Behind Zia's in the Fountain Courtyard

312 Main Street #103 • 530-344-7451 www.pamperingpickle.com

32 32

Dedrick’s Main Street Cheese

Your Neighborhood Gourmet Food Store

312 Main Street, Placerville 530-344-8282 • Dedrickscheese.com M-F 10 to 6 • Sat. 9 to 6 • Sun. 11 to 5

Apple Hill Cider Press www.applehill.com

Serving American Fusion for Lunch & Dinner Beer, Wine & Cocktails 629 Main Street, Suite 102 530-344-7527 www.IndependentPlacerville.com

Historic Downtown Placerville

15th Art & Wine Festival.

Accompanying the banners on the light poles will be the beautiful blooming flower baskets that adorn Main Street each year. A partnership has been established between PDA and MORE (Mother Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises).

MORE’s clients water the baskets throughout the season, and they do a terrific job! The Rhythm & Blooms Party raises funds in March to maintain and expand this “growing” project on Historic Main Street.

With so many exciting events and beautification activities being planned, there is a lot to see and celebrate in Placerville. These projects and events bring a sense of pride to those who live, work or visit this vibrant community! And there are many other special events to stimulate your senses, like the Bell Tower Brewfest, Antique & Craft Fairs, Car Shows and much more. For more info or to see a complete Calendar of Events for Historic Main Street please visit www.

PlacervilleDowntown.com or call (530) 672-3436.

Calendar of Placerville Events

June

September

Saturday, June 11 – Wagon Train & BBQ Rib Cook-Off, 12pm - 6pm

Saturday, September 17 – Oktoberfest, 3pm - 8pm

Saturday, June 25 – Bell Tower Brewfest, 6pm - 9pm

Thursday, September 22 – Hangtown Car Show, 5pm - 8pm

June-September/October

Daily – Banners on Parade, Displayed on Light Poles along Main Street Saturdays – Certified Farmers Market, 8am - 12pm Saturdays (every other) – Music in the Courtyard, 2pm - 5pm Wednesdays – Main Street Farmers Market, 5pm - Dusk

August

Sunday, August 14 – Craft Faire, 8am - 3pm Saturday, August 27 – Moonlight Madness on Main, 6pm - 9pm

Sunday, September 25 – Antique Street Faire, 8am - 3pm

Winterhill

Local Extra-virgin Olive Oils Artisanal Specialty Foods & Tastings

321 Main Street 530-626-6369

October

Saturday, October 15 – Art & Wine Festival w/ Banners on Parade, 6pm - 9pm Monday, October 31 – Trick or Treat on Main Street, 4pm - 6pm

November

Friday, November 25 – Festival of Lights, 5pm – 8pm

For more information call 530-672-3436

Gold Country Artists Gallery Longest Continuously Operating Gallery in Placerville

379 Main Street • 530-642-2944

www.goldcountryartistsgallery.com

Placerville Clothing Co.

“Clothes You Love to Live in” Patagonia • Tommy Bahama • Woolrich

327 Main Street 530-626-3554

Randolph Jewelers

“The oldest jewelry store in the west” established in 1852

375 Main Street • 530-622-3787 www.randolphsjewelry.com

(530) Apple Hill644-7692 Cider Press

Annieberries

Children's Boutique birth to 8 years clothes, shoes, toys, gifts & breast feeding equipt.

320 Main Street • 530-626-1444 www.annieberries.com

33 33

Apple Hill® Grower Ranches serving lunch Some of our favorite specialties: #1 High Hill Ranch – 644-1973 BBQ chicken

#11 Bavarian Hills Orchard – 642-2714 Schnitzel, German Potato Salad and Streudel

#3 Boa Vista Orchards – 622-5522 Tri-Tip Sandwiches, Deli Sandwiches

#14 Denver Dan’s Apple Patch – 644-6881 Chicken Pasties with vegetables, Corndogs, “Surprise” Entrée

#5 Kids Inc.** – 622-0184 Fri. only: Chicken Pot Pie Sat/Sun: Tacos/Tamales/Burritos

#17 Grandpa's Cellar – 644-2153 Tamales, Daily Special

#9 Larsen Apple Barn – 644-8166 Veggie Burgers

#19 El Dorado Orchards** – 642-1222 Smoked Turkey and Tri-Tip Sandwiches

#10 Rainbow Orchards * – 644-1594 Homemade Corndogs, homemade Tamales, Tri-Tip BBQ

#20 Apple Ridge Farms – 647-0613 Tri-Tip BBQ

#23 Mill View Ranch* – 651-3446 Chili and Soup #37 Apple Pantry Farm – 318-2834 Tamales and Pizza #38 Abel’s Apple Acres – 626-0138 Pulled-Pork Sandwiches & Garlic Fries #68 Bodhaine Ranch – 644-1686 Empanadas, Pot Pie & weekend BBQ #133 Smokey Ridge Farmstand and Charcuterie **– 626-5078 Picnic items featuring house-made sausages and cured meats. Vegetarian options.

Please see the center spread map (pages 20 & 21) for locations and hours of operation.

The grower numbers listed above correspond to the map. *Lunch on weekends only **Lunch on Fri., Sat. & Sun.

Time Out

Apple Profiles

A Private Resort & Spa

Voted El Dorado County’s #1 Spa in 2010 – Mt. Democrat Readers’ Choice

Pampering & Rejuvenating Women for 17 Years

(530) 644-0314 2452 Apple Vista Lane, Camino, CA 95709 Fax (530) 644-4348 • www.timeoutspa.com

Gift Certificates Available

&

Pamper the Mind, Body 34

Soul

continued from page 13

ies of choice. Since then many new varieties have sprung up everywhere. We have decided to keep these varieties a part of our farm and to continue to grow them. Yes, we have planted many new varieties, but we feel strongly that we should keep these great old varieties.”

Smokey Ridge Ranch grows McIntosh, which Wendy describes as “a great juicer, with early, classic flavor”, as well as Winesaps, because they have “an incredible tart, yet sweet flavor, with picture-perfect red and green color. And they are good keepers.” Other lesser-known apples at Smokey Ridge are Rhode Island Greenings/Freemonts, with their “beautiful white flesh, classic apple flavor and keeping quality”; Astricans, which are “a very early apple, acidic, and mixed with sweeter apples for juice, sauce and pies”; Gravensteins, which are an “early apple, perfect for pie and sauce”; and Jonathons, which are “early and have great flavor”.

In addition to the Arkansas Black, Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard also grows McIntosh, Romes, Winesaps and Jonathons. John says that his McIntosh sell out very quickly as many of his customers really like this apple. Consequently, he grafted some McIntosh this past year & plans to plant more as soon as he can locate the correct root stock.

These apples, favorites of past generations, are still popular today. Give them a try and you will see why!

Apple Hill Cider Press

Larsen Apple Barn Apples

Red Delicious • Golden Delicious • Roman Beauty • Winesap • Pippin Granny Smith • Jonathan • Mutsu • Gala • Fuji • Paula Red • Pink Lady • Arkansas Black • Parkdale Beauty • Honey Crisp • Braeburn Home of Mr. Apple®

Fresh Cider • Honey • Pears Peaches • Nectarines • Grapes

Locally Grown Mountain Fruit Cafe & Bake Shop Home of the Original Apple Turnover on the Hill

INDOOR & OUTDOOR DINING Specializing in Gourmet Cuisine Desserts and Sandwiches Frozen & Baked Desserts Available

Large Grassy Picnic Area

Three acres with waterfall and the oldest apple tree in El Dorado County Picnic area available by reservation Private wedding area available by reservation

Visit the Larsen Pioneer Museum Four generations of family history on display

Opening Labor Day Sunday (Closed Saturdays)

9

2461 Larsen Drive, Camino, CA 95709

Apple Barn (530) 644-1415 Apple Hill Cider Press Bake Shop (530) 644-8166

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me o c l We to

O’Halloran’s

APPLE TRAIL RANCH An ideal spot for your family outing!

We offer a variety of activities for the whole family that last from September through the holiday season.

We hope you’ll stop in for a visit.

• Apples • Pears • Apple Cider • Apple Sauce • Apple Butter • Indian Corn • Picnic Area • Nature Trail • Cut your own Christmas Trees • 2 acre U-Pick Pumpkin Patch

Our pumpkins are grown right here on our ranch and are waiting for you to cut them off the vine!

18 2261 Cable Road •

(530)

644-3389

˜RAINBOW ORCHARDS˜

Fresh in Mill Cider tion Opera

BAKE SHOP HOMEMADES HOT Cider Donuts Peach, Berry & Apple Cobblers Peach, Berry & Apple Pies Apple Crisp Apple Cream Cheese Tart Jams, Butters, Syrups, Vinegars

APPLE BARN Blueberries, Blackberries, Raspberries Peaches, Nectarines, Apples, Pears

PIPER'S PUMPKIN PATCH Over 25 varieties of heirloom winter squash, pumpkins, and Indian corn.

PREMIUM WINES Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon, and Chardonnay

CRAFTS & BBQ Weekends, Sept. 24–October 23

SLATE MOUNTAIN BLUEGRASS BAND Sundays, Oct. 2-Oct. 23

BENEFIT EVENTS Rotary Chili Challenge & Hangtown Harmonica Contest – June 25 Snowline Hospice Poker Run – July 9 Arts Council How the Best Was Won – Aug. 26 Art in the Orchard – Aug 27 & 28 Teddy Bear Picnic – Sept. 17 Rotary Evening in the Orchard – Sept. 14

10

RAINBOW ORCHARDS CERTIFIED FARMERS’ MARKETS TUESDAY: Alameda, Carmel, Concord, El Cerrito, Felton, Monterey, Novato, Mill Valley WEDNESDAY: Castro, SF Civic Center, Corte Madera, Mission Bay, Fairfax, Pacifica, San Leandro, San Jose, SF Kaiser, San Mateo, Haight SF THURSDAY: Benicia, Capitola, Concord, Crocker Galleria, Daly City, Lafayette, Livermore, Los Altos, Monterey, San Carlos, San Rafael FRIDAY: Mill Valley, Old Oakland, San Jose

10

SATURDAY: Alameda, Alemany, Castro Valley, Danville, Diablo Valley, El Cerrito, Fillmore, Grand Lake, San Leandro, San Mateo, Saratoga, Sunnyvale SUNDAY: Belmont, Blossom Hill, Campbell, Del Monte, Divisidero, Inner Sunset, Jack London Square, Marin, Martinez, Montclair, Moraga, Mountain View, SF Civic Center, Fort Mason San Francisco, Temescal, Walnut Creek

BARKLEY & LARSEN DR. • 644-1594 www.rainboworchards.info Apple Hill Cider Press

37

Everything Old is New Again

by Joan Delfino Walking back to the house from the mailbox yesterday, I was assaulted by a gust of snow-filled wind that tore my sweatshirt hood off and threatened the bundle of mail I was carrying. I clutched the mail to my chest as the wind picked up in earnest, and I sprinted for the kitchen door.

The warm kitchen was welcoming as I shed my sweatshirt. When I dumped the mail on the table, I was delighted to see two seed catalogs. The planned morning of doing laundry and straightening cupboards disappeared as I settled down with a cup of coffee and the first catalog. The slanting snow and the howling wind were only background music to the beautiful vegetables and flowers before me.

As I made my list of seeds to order, I planned my garden: tomatoes in a different spot than last year, more room for the butternut squash, peppers near low growing bush beans. I suddenly thought of people who would not be ordering seeds to plant this spring: people who live in apartments in cities and families that don’t have the time or the room on their lots for a vegetable garden. Then I turned the page. There in large capital letters it said, “FARMERS’ MARKET VALUES!!”

The catalog was offering an entire section to growers-- vegetables and fruits that can be offered at Farmers’ Markets. No one need be without fresh fruits and veggies this summer and fall. Almost every town and city, every shopping mall and strip mall, has a Farmers’ Market.

Many growers in our little Apple Hill® family go to Farmers’ Markets to 38

sell fruits and vegetables from their farms. These markets offer locally grown produce at very reasonable prices. Most towns block off a section of Main Street or a parking lot for the

event. Farmers’ Markets are great family outings! Mom fills her basket with beautiful fresh fruits and veggies, and maybe stops at the buckets of flowers: sunflowers, daisies, glads, zinnias, cosmos. Dad, meanwhile, is checking out plants to try on his own. Maybe he is trying out a fresh strawberry tart or apple turnover or renewing some acquaintances. The kids are just doing what kids do best: having a great time doing just about nothing and everything. They are taking advantage of all the free samples, and they too, are meeting new friends as well as old. The best part of all of this is that people are buying produce that is fresh and tasty and probably grown by their neighbors.

Buying local has never been a better idea. To know that what you are putting on your family table is either produced in your own garden, or in someone’s garden close to you, is very satisfying. You Apple Hill Cider Press

know where it was planted, you know who cared for it while it was growing, you know who picked it, and you certainly know who will cook and eat it.

Each year, my daughter-inlaw and I auction off a dinner for ten at a charity event we favor. We call it the “OneMile Dinner”. By this we try very hard to cook a gourmet dinner for ten people from products grown within one mile of our homes. Most of the dinner ingredients come from our gardens. Some come from Boa Vista Orchards, just one-half mile from our ranch. If we serve prime rib, it comes from the steers we raise on our pasture. If we serve pork loin, it comes from the 4-H pigs our grandchildren raise each year. All the fruits and vegetables are from our gardens. And, of course, the baked goods we serve for dessert are what we sell in our bake shop on Apple Hill®. Even the wine is our own, our daughter-in-law being a budding enologist.

I guess what I’m trying to say is this, “Look at home or close to home for what you need. Our grandparents didn’t have supermarkets and they seemed to get along just fine. The corner store is pretty much gone for most of us. So look around you. I’ll bet there’s a produce stand or a farm selling produce on your way home from work. If not, find out the days and times of your community’s Farmers’ Market. Maybe it takes a few more minutes to prepare veggies that are fresh, or to make a pie from scratch, but I guarantee the smiles you receive will be well worth it, and your family will be healthier and happier.”

®

Marvin Larsen Ranch

rt

Staat the top

Apple Vista

Lane

Unique small family farms!

Scenic Vistas!

Bill’s Apples/ Felice’s Dolls

e en Driv Lars

Grandpa’s Cellar

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50

Bodhaine Ranch & Goodness Orchard

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Bakeshop • Apples • Pears Vegetables • Lunches Farm Market information at: www.goodnessorchard.com

48

2315 Cable Road • (530) 644-1686

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CAMINO

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Cable Rd. Goodness Orchard

48

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16

Trail Express

49

Creek Tree Farm O’Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch Bodhaine Ranch

Marvin Larsen Ranch

Patrick’s Mountain Grown Berry Farm To South Lake Tahoe

Hwy 50 west Exit 54 “Camino” Hwy 50 east Exit 54 “Cedar Grove”

Grandpa’s Cellar • www.grandpascellar.com 17 varieties of hand-crafted Apple Pies & No-Sugar Added items The Apple Cellar has over 300 apple items plus Jams, Jellies, Syrups & Apple Butters made on the premises.

Internet, Phone, and Mail Orders • Tours See page 34 for lunch items.

17

2360 Cable Road • (530) 644-2153

Mill View Ranch Bake Shop • Pastries • Donuts • Gift Shop Homemade Jams, Apple Butter, Relishes Local Crafts • Apples 23 Peaches • Nectarines

Pollock Pines Exit

2740 Cable Road • (530) 651-3446

O’Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch

18

Apples • Pears • Apple Cider • Apple Sauce Apple Butter • 2 acre U-Pick Pumpkin Patch Indian Corn • Picnic Area • Nature Trail Cut your own Christmas Trees

2261 Cable Road • (530) 644-3389

Pick Your Own • Berries • Cherry Tomatoes • Produce • Flowers • Apples!

No v. 1 9 th

Crystal Creek Tree Farm

89

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ad Ro

y

Camino Exit 2234 Cable Road 6 miles east of Placerville (530) 644-5283

Mill View Ranch

15 89 Crystal

Mace Rd.

35

2721 Mace Road (530) 644-1396 • 644-2475

Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard

17

Bill’s ApplesBarkle Felice’s Dolls Carson Rd.

49

Apples • Pears • Apple Cider Walnuts • Honey • Persimmons Christmas Trees

Create Lasting Memories Doug Fir, White Fir, Silver Tip, Blue Spruce, Scotch Pine, Noble Fir, and exotic firs from around the world.

Open Nov. 19 thru Dec. 24

2019 Cable Road (530) 644-4647 • 530-644-7014

Hangtown Kid Apple Orchard

Apples • Pears • Persimmons • Chestnuts Honey • Pumpkins • U-Pick or Picked

15

2598 Mace Road

Apple Hill Cider Press (530) 647-1810

Patrick’s Mountain Grown

16

www.PatricksMountainGrown.com Gourmet Veggies & Jams

4455 Pony Express Trail 39 (530) 647-2833

2011 Apple Hill ® Calendar of Events –

April-May Events

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APRIL 30-MAY 1: APPLE BLOSSOM FESTIVAL Apple Blossom activities, including trail run and benefit BBQ, at participating ranches. See p. 26 of the Cider Press or www.applehill.com for ranches, activities and times.

MAY 1: TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION #26 Lava Cap Winery. Silver anniversary celebration with free live music (1-5) and cake plus BBQ for purchase. 621-0175 MAY 8: MOTHERS’ DAY #26 Lava Cap Winery, 11-5. Celebrate Mothers’ Day with mums, melodies, and sweets for your mother. Free.

621-0175 MAY 28: WINE 101 #26 Lava Cap Winery, 1:30-3. First in series with wine writer Rick Kushman. $25/person. 621-0175

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June Events

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JUNE 18 & 19: SPA DAY FOR MEN #27 Time Out, A Private Resort & Spa. Pampering for men including lunch and decadent desserts. Charge. 644-0314 JUNE 25: COWBOYS & CORNBREAD #10 Rainbow Orchards, 11-4. Tasters’ Choice Chili Competition and Hangtown Harmonica Contest.

Cowboy poetry, music, car show, kids’ activities.

Benefits Pollock Pines/Camino Rotary & El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce. Charge. 644-1594

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July Events

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JULY 9: RIDIN’ FOR HOSPICE #10 Rainbow Orchards, 1-4. Motorcycle Poker-Run to benefit Snowline Hospice. Charge. 644-1594 JULY 16 & 17: LAVENDER FESTIVAL #56 Bluestone Meadow. You-Pick lavender, cut lavender, dried lavender, lavender crafts and products. 676-0934 JULY 30: MUSIC EVENT #26 Lava Cap Winery, 3-7. Free live concert in the garden. Bring your own picnic or enjoy our BBQ for charge. 621-0175

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August Events

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AUG 26: HOW THE BEST WAS WON #10 Rainbow Orchards, 5-9. Harvest dinner in the orchard with local foods and wines, western music, and cowboy poetry. Benefits El Dorado Arts Council.

Charge. Reservations: 644-1594 AUGUST 27: SUNSET SIPPING #26 Lava Cap Winery, 5:00-dusk. First in a series of Sat. evening late-tasting hours. Bring a picnic & enjoy the sunset. 621-0175 AUG 27 & 28: ART IN THE ORCHARD Celebrate the arts and agriculture with activities at participating ranches. See p. 3 of the Cider Press or www.applehill.com for ranches, activities, and times. Sponsored by Apple Hill® Growers & El Dorado Arts Council.

“Apple Hill®: Fresh! Local! Fun!” Please visit www.applehill.com for more details and updates throughout the year.

Please call the ranch listed after each event for more complete information.

Member phone numbers and addresses on pages 20-21

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September Events

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SEPT 3, 4 & 5 (LABOR-DAY WEEKEND): OPENING DAYS OF MOST APPLE HILL® RANCHES SEPT 2- 5: LABOR DAY CRAFT FAIR #45 Bolster’s Hilltop Ranch. 644-2230 SEPT 3: EIGHTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION #25 Wofford Acres Vineyards, 12-4. New releases & food. Charge for food. 626-6858 SEPT 4 & 5: TAMALE-MAKING CLASSES #17 Grandpa’s Cellar, 2-4. Learn to make traditional tamales with a twist of apple. Free. Reservation required: 644-2153 SEPT 11: GRANDPARENTS’ DAY #17 Grandpa’s Cellar, 10-5. Complimentary glass of Barsotti apple cider & a bakery treat for grandparents.

Contests with prizes. Free. 644-2153 SEPT 14: EVENING IN THE ORCHARD #10 Rainbow Orchards, 5-8. Harvest dinner in the apple barn with local foods & wine. Benefits Pollock Pines/ Camino Rotary. $40/person. Reservations: 644-1594 SEPT 16, 17 & 18: CHUGGERS SHOW #1 High Hill Ranch. Old-time steam engines. 644-1973 SEPT 17: TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC #10 Rainbow Orchards, 11-3. Kids’ games & live entertainment, teddy bear parade, petting zoo. Benefits El Dorado Family Connections. Charge for food & game tickets. 644-1594 SEPT 17 & 18: APPLE-CRISP SAMPLING #14 Denver Dan’s Apple Patch. Sample varieties of apple crisp and vote for your favorite. Free. 644-6881 SEPT 17 & 18: KIDS’ DAYS #5 Kids Inc. Mini cooking-school, scarecrow-making contest (Sept. 17 only), walkin’ pie-eating contest, egg races. Free. 622-0184 SEPT 18: JOHNNY APPLESEED DAY Children’s activities at participating ranches in celebration of Johnny Appleseed’s birthday. See p. 8 of the Cider Press or www.applehill.com for ranches, activities and times.

SEPT 23: FIRST DAY OF AUTUMN #17 Grandpa’s Cellar, 11-4. Free bakery treat & glass of Barsotti apple cider to all El Dorado County residents.

ID required. 644-2153 SEPT 24: KIDS’ BAKING DAY #37 Apple Pantry Farm, 10-2. Kids learn to roll out pie dough and make an apple turnover. Free. 295-1001

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October Events

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OCT 1: MODEL A’S IN APPLE HILL® #37 Apple Pantry Farm, 12-2. See restored 1928-1931 Model A’s. Free. 295-1001 OCT 9: GIRL SCOUTS’ SCARECROW CONTEST #84 Harris Tree Farm. Come see Girl Scout scarecrows.

Free. 644-2194 OCT 27-31: HAUNTED NATURE TRAIL #17 Grandpa’s Cellar, 10-4, weather permitting. Suitable for young children. Free. 644-2153 OCT 29: NEVADA DAY #5 Kids Inc. Free a la mode ice cream w/purchase of dessert for NV residents. 622-0184 #17 Grandpa’s Cellar, 10-5. Free glass of Barsotti cider and bakery treat for NV residents. ID required. 644-2153 #25 Wofford Acres Vineyards, 11-4. 15% discount with NV ID. 626-6858 OCT 29 & 30: SYRUP TASTING #14 Denver Dan’s Apple Patch. Sample a variety of syrups on ice cream and vote for your favorite. Free. 644-6881 OCT 29-30: TRICK-OR-TREAT DAYS #20 Apple Ridge Farms. Free treat bags for kids. 647-0613

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November Events

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NOV 5: GUY FAWKES BON FIRE #36 Jack Russell Farm Brewery. 647-9420.

NOV 6: APPLE HILL® HARVEST RUN. Benefits Camino School. Details and application: www.applehill.com NOV 11: VETERANS’ DAY #5 Kids Inc. Live music, free a la mode ice cream for Veterans w/purchase of dessert. 622-0184 NOV 12: HOLIDAY PIE PREVIEW #37 Apple Pantry Farm, 11-1. Free samples of holiday pies. 295-1001 NOV 12 & 13: VOLKSMARCH WALK #19 El Dorado Orchards & #3 Boa Vista Orchards.

5K, 10K & 13K walks sponsored by Placer Pacers’ Volksport Club. Registration: www.placerpacers.org.

647-2726 NOV 25: OPENING DAY OF MOST APPLE HILL® CHRISTMAS TREE FARMS

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2012 Events

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APRIL 28 & 29: APPLE BLOSSOM FESTIVAL For participating ranches, activities & times check www.applehill.com mid-March 2012