Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the establishment of a new craft cider production facility by Stone Ledge Cider in Augusta County. The facility, which will also include a tasting room, is set to be constructed on the 20-acre agritourism farm that houses the Cider House Bed and Breakfast.
Stone Ledge Cider plans to invest over $330,000 in this venture and create six new jobs. The company is committed to sourcing ingredients from Virginia for its products, pledging to purchase $166,858 worth of local apples, honey, and other fruits over the next three years. Some of these ingredients will come from their own orchard.
Governor Youngkin remarked on Virginia’s favorable business environment: “Virginia’s status as the top state for business creates success stories like this, where a local business owner has the ability and the drive to branch out into another business area.” He expressed optimism about Stone Ledge Cider’s future contributions to Shenandoah Valley tourism and craft beverages.
Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Matthew Lohr emphasized the role of agriculture in Virginia’s economy: “We are very proud of the different ways Virginia agriculture and forestry helps to bolster the Commonwealth’s thriving economy.”
The Cider House Bed and Breakfast operates in a historic farmhouse dating back to 1790. Its owner, Melinda Kendall, who acquired it in 2020, has introduced environmentally friendly practices such as organic gardening and reduced pesticide use. Kendall expressed her enthusiasm for expanding her cider-making hobby into a commercial endeavor: “I am excited to expand my hobby of making cider…in a new production facility.”
Local officials have welcomed Stone Ledge Cider’s initiative. Senator Mark Obenshain highlighted its contribution to the region’s beverage industry while Delegate Chris Runion shared his support for local agricultural ventures.
Gerald Garber from Augusta County Board of Supervisors noted that “the growth of the cider industry is a great example” of supporting rural economies through value-added agriculture.
The project received assistance from several organizations including funding facilitated by Governor Younkin through a $10,000 grant matched by Augusta County funds.
