Fly Creek Cider Mill Announces Arrival of New York Apple Crop
FLY CREEK—The first apples of New York’s 2026 harvest have arrived at the Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard, signaling the start of the busy season.
Paula Red, Ginger Gold and Zestar apples are available in the mill’s popular pack-your-own Apple Room. Visitors can mix and match varieties to create their own assortment, with bags available in sizes ranging from a quarter peck to a half bushel.
According to a press release, the late-April frost brought temperatures below 23 degrees in portions of the state, with the extent of damage varying considerably by county, elevation and proximity to large bodies of water. Growers supplying the Fly Creek Cider Mill are reporting an average overall crop, with some frost damage affecting early-ripening varieties.
“The encouraging news is the quality of the fruit,” said Fly Creek Cider Mill owner Bill Michaels. “Our growers are reporting excellent quality and larger-sized apples. There’s nothing quite like seeing those first New York apples arrive at the mill, because it means fall is just around the corner.”
Cider pressing is expected to commence during the week of September 7 as additional later-ripening varieties become available. Until then, visitors can enjoy the mill’s sweet cider that was pressed and quick-frozen last November to preserve its fresh-pressed flavor, Michaels said.
The arrival of the new crop also provides an appropriate backdrop for a special addition to the mill’s Cider Gallery.
Earlier this year, Cooperstownian Gus Chiarello, assistant secretary for financial resources at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, presented the mill with an apple panel used during the rollout of the Department’s “Eat Real Food” campaign. The panel was autographed by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and is now on display at the mill.
According to Michaels, visitors will find plenty happening at the mill this weekend as the apple season gets underway. Activities on Saturday, August 29 include Family Farm Day, an antique engine show and a special sampling featuring the mill’s popular dry dip mixes.
A complete schedule of upcoming events and cider pressing dates is available at flycreekcidermill.com.
The Fly Creek Cider Mill and Orchard is located three miles from Cooperstown and 22 miles south of Herkimer, just off New York State Route 28.
