Rootstock Cider and Spirits, a popular craft cidery located in Williamson, Wayne County, announced its permanent closure this summer. According to the Wednesday announcement, the family-owned business will cease operations on September 1, with bar services at the tasting room ending earlier on July 30.
In a press release, the DeFisher family attributed the tough decision to a blend of factors such as the fluctuating economy, the rising costs of operation, and market expansion expenses. The late-season freeze in May, which wreaked havoc on the farm’s apple crop, was another critical factor, as apple cider production is the heart of Rootstock’s operations. General manager Luke DeFisher confirmed the wind-down of cider production, which is set to conclude by July’s end. Distributors will continue selling remaining inventory even after the closure.
Rootstock, established in 2012 on the fifth-generation DeFisher Fruit Farms, has had a decade-long run promoting the best of their region’s apple produce. Despite the cider production closure, the farm, which grows a variety of fruits, will continue its operations. The tasting room will operate on an abbreviated schedule (4 to 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays) between July 31 and September 1 to sell remaining inventory. In their statement, the DeFisher family expressed gratitude to their customers and supporters over the years.
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