Home / Rooted Agritourism / Crafting Cider and Experiences: The Milk and Honey Cider Agritourism Story

Crafting Cider and Experiences: The Milk and Honey Cider Agritourism Story

Oct 27, 2025

30 min

Description

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHVg-R6xh_0Flowers Bloom Anyway Waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/authorIn this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' hosted by Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow, guest Peter Gillitzer, co-owner of Milk and Honey...

Flower Farmer Forum Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rHVg-R6xh_0

Flowers Bloom Anyway Waitlist: https://www.lizfiedlermergen.com/author

In this episode of 'Rooted Agritourism,' hosted by Dr. Liz Fiedler Mergen, owner of Sunny Mary Meadow, guest Peter Gillitzer, co-owner of Milk and Honey Cider in St. Joseph shares insights into their growth from a small-scale cider producer to a thriving agritourism hub. The discussion touches on the evolution of their business, the importance of offering value-added experiences, such as their tasting room and community events like trivia nights and music series. Peter recounts stories of unexpected business expansions, the importance of customer experience, and strategies for planning a master calendar of events. The episode emphasizes the significance of adaptability, community engagement, and the synergy between agricultural products and tourism.

00:00 Introduction to Rooted Agritourism

00:23 Meet Peter Gillitzer, co-owner of Milk and Honey Cider in St. Joseph

00:55 Discussing Agritourism and Value-Added Products

01:18 The Evolution of Milk and Honey Cider

03:07 Challenges and Successes in Agritourism

04:38 Unexpected Popularity and Adaptations

09:32 Expanding Offerings and Community Engagement

12:33 Planning and Managing Events

16:35 Balancing Business and Lifestyle

18:29 Reaching Customers: Strategies and Challenges

21:18 Diversifying Events and Revenue Streams

24:21 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights