Fennville, Michigan

Nestled in the heart of Southwest Michigan’s fruit belt, a two-hour drive from Chicago, lies Virtue Cider—a cider house with a deep commitment to traditional cider-making. Founded in 2011 by Gregory Hall, former brewmaster at Goose Island Brewery, Virtue Cider emerged after Hall’s 20-year tenure in Chicago. His passion for craft cider took him on a two-month journey through France and England, where he learned from top cider-makers and brought back a wealth of knowledge on centuries-old farmhouse techniques.

Virtue Cider’s mission is clear: to craft “proper farmhouse ciders” using local heirloom apples and traditional methods, including native and secondary fermentation, wild yeasts, and an extensive oak barrel-aging process.

Every element at Virtue serves a purpose. Virtue is located on a 48-acre sustainable, solar-powered farm, with French farmhouse-style buildings that are neither heated nor cooled, mirroring the authenticity of old-world cider production. Twenty acres of grasslands on the farm support local pollinators, contributing to the health of the surrounding environment. After pressing fruit for cider, the remaining apple pomace is repurposed as animal feed, or spread around the farm to create volunteer apple orchards, which signals another example of Virtue’s commitment to sustainability.

As you explore Virtue’s walking trails, you might encounter farm animals like chickens, which play a vital role in the ecosystem by providing eggs, controlling pests, and enriching the soil. You may also hear the distinctive grunts of Gloucestershire Old Spot pigs, described by Virtue as “traditional orchard pigs” integral to the soil-to-cider cycle in England. The pigs act as a natural pesticide, eating insects before they have a chance to harm the orchards. According to orchard folklore, their spots resemble bruises from apples falling in the orchards where they grazed.

After exploring the farm, relax at one of Virtue’s indoor or outdoor tables and enjoy the 101 Cider Flight, a selection of six handcrafted farmhouse ciders for $20. Light bites are available to complement your tasting experience. You can also book a tour or guided tasting for a nominal fee.

Virtue Cider is a family and pet-friendly destination. While reservations are encouraged, walk-ins are always welcome.

For an inside look at how Virtue cider is made, watch this video.

Virtue Cider is located at 2170 62nd St, Fennville, MI 49408

Bonus: While you’re in Fennville, swing by neighboring Crane’s Pie Pantry and sample a delicious pie flight.

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