As summer unfolds in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the Apple Hill Growers begin to welcome a vibrant tapestry of purple and blue hues, heralding the arrival of the annual Lavender Blue Harvest Days. This cherished event, taking place on the weekends of June 21–22 and June 28–29, 2025, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the fragrant fields of lavender and the sweet allure of ripe blueberries.

---

Experience the Lavender Blue Harvest Days

Hosted by the Apple Hill Growers Association, the Lavender Blue Harvest Days offer a delightful blend of agricultural experiences and family-friendly activities

• Bluestone Meadow Farm: The heart of the festival, Bluestone Meadow Farm, welcomes guests to cut their own lavender bouquets, craft lavender wreaths or critters, and explore the enchanting Lavender Labyrinth. Children can enjoy the dedicated Kid Zone, while the ‘Lavender Answer Guy’ provides insights into cultivating and utilizing this versatile herb. A variety of lavender-infused products, including essential oils, soaps, and lotions, are available for purchase.
• Participating Farms: Beyond Bluestone Meadow, other Apple Hill farms join the celebration with u-pick blueberry experiences, lavender and blueberry treats, artisan crafts, and more. These weekends are the perfect opportunity to savor the early summer bounty and explore the scenic beauty of the region.

During Lavender Blue Harvest Days, the Apple Hill Growers invite you to explore fresh-picked blueberries, fragrant lavender, and delicious farm-made food and drink. Here’s a look at some of the participating locations and their seasonal specialties:

• Delfino Farms: Sample handmade seasonal desserts featuring blueberries, strawberries, rhubarb, and cherries, and enjoy a relaxing wine tasting at Edio Vineyards.
• Harris Tree Farm: Delight in lavender mini donuts, lavender lemonade, and other sweet and floral farm-fresh bites.
• 24Carrot Farm: This rustic, certified organic farm offers colorful produce and fresh baked goods. Snag organic blueberries and blueberry plants to enjoy the taste of summer at home.
• Jack Russell Farm Brewery: Savor a blueberry pancake breakfast, a blueberry hot honey dessert pizza, and blueberry-lavender craft beverages served in their scenic beer garden.
• Hidden Star: Sip their blueberry lavender cider and enjoy a warm slice of blueberry-lavender cobbler—a true summer comfort treat.
• Rainbow Camino Ridge: U-Pick blueberries available only during the two Lavender Blue Harvest Days weekends! A fun and seasonal family experience—don’t miss it!    Reservations required, make them here.
• Rucksack Cellars: Celebrate Lavender Days with a 2-for-1 wine tasting flight.
• Smokey Ridge Farmstand and Winery: Cool down with a refreshing lavender sangria and pick up fresh lavender bouquets for a fragrant reminder of your visit.
• Grandpa’s Cellar: Enjoy a lavender-themed menu featuring pies and baked goods, plus a special lavender tasting flight highlighting unique floral flavors in every bite.
• Starfield Vineyard: Enjoy curated self-guided wine flights, with Starfield Members receiving complimentary tastings and the public getting $5 off. Take advantage of special case deals and 3-pack wine sales.
• Wofford Acres Vineyards: Sip wine while soaking in sweeping views of the South Fork of the American River canyon and blooming irises. Enjoy a 33% discount on 3+ bottles when you mention Lavender Days.
• Lava Cap Winery: Relax with a glass of wine in their lavender-covered garden oasis. Guests are welcome to bring outside food, and picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Pine-O-Mine Ranch: Enjoy live music, face painting, and cotton candy for the kids. Treat yourself to savory bites, blueberry-lavender cocktails or mocktails.
• Fenton Herriott Vineyards: Enjoy live music until 6:30 during festival days. Join in on the fun with a Sip & Paint Class while enjoying delicious wine.
• O’ Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch: U-pick lavender and blackberries are fun for the whole family. Enjoy petting farm animals and the expansive picnic area.

---

Delightful Lavender Dessert: Lavender Blueberry Shortbread Bars

Celebrate the flavors of the Lavender Blue Festival at home with this simple yet impressive dessert. These buttery bars combine fragrant lavender with juicy blueberries over a rich shortbread base; this decadent treat is sure to become a summer staple!

Ingredients

For the shortbread base:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt

For the blueberry topping:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 tsp cornstarch

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. Make the shortbread: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan in an even layer. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. Prepare the topping: While the crust bakes, combine blueberries, lemon juice, lavender, sugar, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Assemble and bake: Pour the blueberry mixture over the hot shortbread crust and spread evenly. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.
5. Cool and enjoy: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. Chill in the fridge for easier cutting. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.

 

---

 

Explore More Summer Activities in Apple Hill

The summer charm extends beyond the Lavender Blue Harvest Days. Visitors can indulge in a variety of seasonal activities:

• 2025 Farm to Fork Dinner: The Apple Hill Grower’s Farm to Fork Dinner will take place on Saturday, July 12, at Delfino Farms. This 21+ event features a six-course, wine-paired dinner crafted with fresh, local ingredients from Apple Hill farms. Guests will enjoy hard cider, a berry-inspired dessert spread, live music, and beautiful views of the orchards and vineyards. Purchase your tickets here.
• Summer Harvest Days: Scheduled for July 26–27 and August 2–3, 2025, these weekends showcase the region’s abundance of stone fruits, berries, baked goods, and wines. Participating farms offer u-pick experiences, tastings, and family-friendly events.
• Winery Events: Local vineyards, such as Edio Vineyards and Lave Cap Winery, host special events including wine tastings, live music, and “Bottle Your Own” experiences, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.

Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your Apple Hill adventure:

• Accommodations: Consider staying at Ponderosa Ridge Bed & Breakfast, which is offering a special promo rate when you use the code: LAVENDER for a minimum 2-night stay. They will be serving a special blueberry and lavender inspired breakfast menu.
• Stay Informed: Visit applehill.com for the latest updates on events, participating farms, and seasonal offerings.

Embrace the essence of summer with the Apple Hill Growers, where the harmonious blend of lavender and blueberries creates an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

From Blossom to Bottle: How Apple Cider is Made

It all starts with a blossom… and ends with a sip of something sweet.

There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh apple cider—especially when you know exactly where it came from. In this region of family-run farms and deep-rooted traditions, cider-making is a seasonal ritual built on generations of care, connection to the land, and a whole lot of love.

So how does that crisp, golden cider make its way from orchard to glass? Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at how local cider is made—and where you can experience it firsthand.

Step 1: Blossoms & Bees

It all begins in spring, when apple trees burst into bloom. Tiny white and pink blossoms cover the orchards, attracting bees and other pollinators. This is a magical time, and it sets the stage for the entire harvest season.

Fun fact: Each blossom has the potential to become one apple—if it’s pollinated properly!

Step 2: Growing Season

Throughout the summer, apples begin to grow, soak up the sunshine, and develop their signature color and flavor. Orchard caretakers closely monitor ripeness, sugar levels, and overall fruit health to ensure a high-quality harvest.

Step 3: Picking the Perfect Apples

Once harvest season hits in late summer and fall, apples are hand-picked and sorted. Some head straight to farmstands and kitchens, while others are set aside specifically for cider-making. These cider apples may be a little less picture-perfect—but they’re packed with intense, juicy flavor.

Blending different varieties of apples creates that signature cider balance: sweet, tart, and aromatic all at once.

Step 4: Wash, Chop & Press

After harvesting, the apples are washed, chopped, and pressed to extract their rich, natural juice.

Step 5: Chill, Bottle & Serve

Once pressed, the juice is filtered and chilled. It may be bottled immediately for fresh cider or lightly pasteurized to extend shelf life. You’ll find it served cold, warm with spices, or even as a frozen slushie depending on the season—and every version is delicious in its own way.

Barsotti’s Apple Juice Company, a cornerstone of the local community, has been producing fresh-pressed juices for decades. Their cold-pressed apple juice is made from mountain-grown apples and has become a must-try for visitors of all ages. Their clean, refreshing juice is a pure expression of the fruit—and a true taste of the Sierra Foothills. You can find their juices for sale at local Apple Hill Grower Ranches, and you might even find it at your favorite grocery store.

Rainbow Orchards has been making their fresh pressed apple cider since 1977. They are the only Apple Hill Grower that makes and sells unpasteurized apple cider. There is no better taste than sipping from a jug of cold crisp apple cider on a fall day.

Hard Cider: A Grown-Up Twist

For those looking for a more spirited experience, the area is home to several local producers crafting small-batch hard cider with their own unique styles and stories.

• Edio Vineyards offers Henrietta Stitch, a beautifully balanced, estate-crafted cider that reflects both tradition and innovation.
• Hidden Star crafts a playful and rotating variety of hard ciders in addition to their family-friendly offerings like apple slushies.
• Jack Russell Brewery adds a craft beer twist to the mix with their own take on hard cider, made with local fruit and always full of character.
• North Canyon Cider Company uses Barsotti’s fresh-pressed juice as the base for their flavorful hard ciders, offering a lineup of six distinct varieties that showcase just how fun and versatile cider can be.
• Rainbow Orchards known for their classic apple cider donuts, also presses a deliciously bold hard cider you won’t want to miss.
• Smokey Ridge Ranch a fourth-generation farm, creates handcrafted hard ciders alongside their charcuterie, heirloom fruits, and preserves.
• Wofford Acres Vineyards brings a winemaker’s touch to their cider, offering clean, crisp flavors in a scenic setting.

Each one offers something unique—whether you’re into dry, sweet, sparkling, or spiced. And many of them offer tastings, bottles to go, or scenic spots to sit and sip.

Taste the Tradition

From the first spring blossoms to the final pour, cider-making is a process rooted in tradition, nurtured by family, and inspired by the seasons. Whether you’re sipping a fresh-pressed juice or a chilled hard cider, you’re tasting more than apples—you’re experiencing a way of life.

So next time you visit the farms, orchards, or vineyards in this special growing region, grab a glass and savor the journey—from blossom to bottle.

Celebrating Earth Day at Apple Hill Growers Sustainable Farms

Farmers are the stewards of the land, and Earth Day reminds us of the vital connection between healthy soil, clean water, and sustainable farming practices that nurture both the land and the people it feeds. The worldwide event on April 22 is a reminder that we are all stewards of our environment.

On Earth Day, we honor not only the bounty of our lands but the responsibility we bear to protect them for future generations. The farmers of Apple Hill Growers embrace sustainable practices that ensure clean air, water, and thriving habitats while providing safe, affordable food for our communities. Many of our farms currently grow organically and have become certified while other farms are working to transition to organic and others are explore innovative sustainable farming techniques to reduce both the use of water and pesticides.

Here’s a look at all our farms:

• 24 Carrot Farms (Certified Organic)
• Drew Bean Farms (innovative sustainable farming techniques)
• Collina di Mela (Certified Organic)
• Edio Vineyards at Delfino Farms (in transition to organic)
• Fudge Factory Farm (Certified Organic)
• Grandpa’s Cellar (innovative sustainable farming techniques)
• Harris Family Farm (innovative sustainable farming techniques)
• Madroña Vineyards (innovative sustainable farming techniques)
• Patrick’s Berry Farm & Garden (innovative sustainable farming techniques)
• Rucksack Cellars (innovative sustainable farming techniques)

24 Carrot Farms uses cover crops to enhance soil fertility and replenish essential minerals. They also make their own compost.  The latest addition to the farm is a large flock of laying hens. These chickens roam freely in designated areas of the farm and orchards, helping to control pests by hunting for bugs. In addition to providing natural fertilizer, they also produce fresh eggs for the farm. If you’re hoping to get some, be sure to arrive early on Thursdays—eggs often sell out within the first hour of opening!

The family behind Fudge Factory Farm has been farming since 1985. They are certified organic and have committed to organic growing, growing apples, raspberries, blueberries, and their other crops using sustainable growing practices. To reduce their environmental impact, they hand-pull weeds instead of spraying chemicals, use bug zappers that attract and eliminate pests at night, and repurpose cardboard boxes as tree trunk bands to give pests an alternative habitat.  Additionally, chickens roam the orchard as natural bug eliminators, and they prioritize electric equipment whenever possible to improve air quality.

Edio Vineyard is in the process of moving the winery to organic certification. They don’t use any herbicides and use cover crops to naturally deliver nitrogen to the grapes. The farm is also home to an adorable flock of baby doll sheep who eat those cover crops and in turn create their own, low-emission fertilizer.

On your next visit, stop by one of our farms to learn more about how they are preserving the environment while providing first class produce and wine grapes for all to enjoy.

“Farmers are always learning and adapting their methods,” said Pam Harris, owner of Harris Family Farm and president of the Apple Hill Growers. “We are lucky for the close-knit collaboration among our Association’s many small family farms, which helps us all learn and support each other – not just for now but for the future.”

For more information and to see who’s open now please visit http://applehill.com/events and follow @applehillofficial on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-the-minute information and more on how Apple Hill Growers are using sustainable practices to be stewards of their land.

Behind the Scenes: How Apple Hill Growers Prepare for Peak Season

Spring is a season of renewal, and for an Apple Hill Grower, it’s also a time of hard work and preparation. While visitors flock to the orchards in the fall for apple picking, cider sipping, and scenic autumn views, the magic of harvest season begins long before that. So, what happens behind the scenes in the orchards? Let’s take a look at how local farmers gear up for their busiest time of year.

1. Pruning for a Stronger Harvest

Spring is pruning season. Farmers carefully trim trees to remove dead or overgrown branches, which helps improve air circulation and encourages better fruit production.

Why Pruning is Important:

• Increases sunlight exposure, leading to sweeter apples
• Prevents overcrowding, allowing each apple to grow larger
• Reduces the risk of disease and pests

Proper pruning ensures that when harvest season arrives, the apples are vibrant, juicy, and ready for picking!

 2. The Blooming Stage: Apple Blossoms Take Over the Orchards

April marks the peak of apple blossoms, covering the orchards in breathtaking white and pink flowers. While these blossoms make for stunning photos, they serve a much greater purpose—the start of the apple-growing process.

Farmers’ Spring Tasks:

• Pollination Support: Bees play a crucial role in pollinating apple blossoms, so many farmers work with local beekeepers to ensure a healthy bee population in their orchards.
• Weather Monitoring: Late frosts can damage blossoms, so farmers take extra care to protect them, sometimes using wind machines or sprinklers to regulate temperatures.
• Soil Preparation: Healthy apples start with healthy soil. Farmers test and enrich their soil with nutrients to give the trees the best possible growing conditions.

3. Preparing for Visitors: Farmstands, Markets, and Event Planning

Though fall is the busiest time, many Apple Hill Growers stay open year-round or begin preparing their ranches in spring.

Spring Farm Preparation Includes:

• Restocking shelves with fresh products like jams, honey, and baked goods
• Planning events like U-pick berry days, wine tastings, and farm tours
• Updating picnic areas, trails, and seating for visitors

Farmers know that the Apple Hill Growers provide more than just an agricultural hub—we give an experience. That’s why we take great care in creating a welcoming environment for guests of all ages.

4. Early Crops and Seasonal Produce

While apples won’t be ready until the fall, many Apple Hill Growers grow additional crops in spring. Visitors can find fresh produce at farmstands, including:

• Strawberries
• Lettuce and greens
• Lavender
• Asparagus
• Fresh herbs like basil, mint, and rosemary

Spring is also when wineries begin bottling their latest wines, making it a perfect time for a tasting tour of the Apple Hill Grower’s vineyards.

5. Looking Ahead to Fall: The Road to Harvest Season

While the orchards are just beginning to bloom in spring, farmers already have their sights set on autumn. The work they put in now—pruning, pollination, soil care, and pest management—lays the foundation for the vibrant experience that visitors love in September through December. So, the next time you visit an Apple Hill Grower farm in the fall, enjoying fresh apple cider, warm pies, and crisp orchard air, remember that it all started months earlier in the quiet, hardworking days of spring.

Plan a Spring Visit to See the Process in Action!

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Camino, CA for a behind-the-scenes look at farming in action. Whether you’re tasting fresh-picked produce, or touring wineries, you’ll get a whole new appreciation for the year-round effort that makes the fall season so spectacular.

Be sure to check here (https://applehill.com/events/ ) to begin planning your visit.

Celebrate Spring at Apple Hill’s Spring Wine Event – March 22 & 23, 2025

Spring is a time of renewal, warmth, and new beginnings—and what better way to embrace the season than with a weekend of wine tasting in the beautiful Apple Hill region? As the orchards bloom and the vineyards come alive, you’re invited to sip, savor, and celebrate at the Apple Hill Spring Wine Event, happening March 22nd and 23rd.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply looking for a fun and relaxing weekend escape, this event offers the perfect opportunity to explore Apple Hill’s renowned wineries, enjoy exclusive tastings, and indulge in perfectly paired bites. With breathtaking scenery, friendly winemakers, and special spring releases, this is a can’t-miss event for wine lovers and adventure seekers alike!

A Weekend of Exclusive Tastings & Experiences

This special event showcases hand-selected flights, exclusive releases, and delightful pairings at participating Apple Hill wineries. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful weekend escape, there’s something for everyone.

Featured Wineries & Experiences

Starfield Vineyards – Enjoy curated self-guided wine flight boards ranging from $15 to $25, with discounts for the general public and complimentary tastings for Starfield Members. Special case sales and top-scoring wine bundles will also be available.

Rucksack Cellars – Sip on a flight of Sierra Highland wines while soaking in the stunning views. As a special treat, attendees will get access to an exclusive wine pour available only during this event.

Madroña Vineyards – Escape to the peaceful surroundings of Madroña and indulge in a Spring Flight of wines, thoughtfully selected just for event guests. Complimentary tastings for wine club members.

Lava Cap Winery – Be among the first to taste the new spring releases, including Rosé, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and newly bottled award-winning reds. Complimentary for wine club members.

Boeger Winery – Experience a one-of-a-kind Amber wine paired with a delicious, spring-inspired treat—the perfect way to toast the season!

Edio Vineyards at Delfino Farms – Indulge in a special food and wine pairing from Joan’s Apple Bakery, along with freshly baked bread and treats. Plus, build your own bouquet with locally grown flowers. (Reservations required for pairing.)

Fenton Herriott Vineyards – Take a sensory journey through Europe with their “Taste Through Europe” experience, featuring three expertly paired wines and cheeses from distinct regions. Just $25 for non-members and $15 for club members.

Wofford Acres Vineyards – Celebrate spring with the release of their 2021 Syrah and 2024 Syrah Rosé. Enjoy the gorgeous vineyard views, where blooming irises and daffodils will add to the picturesque setting. (Reservations recommended.)

Plan Your Visit

Mark your calendar and gather your friends for a weekend filled with exceptional wines, delicious pairings, and the beauty of spring in Apple Hill. Whether you’re in it for the bold reds, crisp whites, or the unique pairings, this event is the perfect way to shake off winter and step into the new season.

Apple Hill growers are always thinking about and working on new events for guests to enjoy, ensuring that there is something special happening all year long. From springtime celebrations to harvest festivals and holiday magic there is never a bad time to visit Apple Hill. Stay tuned for more exciting experiences coming your way!

For more details, visit the websites of participating wineries or plan your trip now! Cheers to spring!