If you're a fan of rich cider history, then you're in for a treat at the upcoming NY Cider Festival on November 16th in New York City. One of our special cider makers pouring at the event is Simon and Jesse Ingall, the force behind Grisamore Cider Works, a cidery rooted in the rich agricultural legacy of their family’s farm in Locke, New York.

The Grisamore Farm story dates back nearly a century. Maurice Grisamore, his wife Else, and her mother moved from Chicago to Locke in 1927 to start a new life on their own dairy farm. Over the decades, the Grisamores expanded their crops, adding strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, and vegetables. By the time Simon and Jesse's grandparents, Paul and Christine, took over, the farm had diversified into a bustling pick-your-own destination, complete with a charming farm store in their converted dairy barn.

Fast forward to today, and you’ll find the brothers adding a new chapter to the family legacy through Grisamore Cider Works. Originally a hobbyist cider maker, Simon honed his skills using apples from the farm’s orchard planted in 1975. Inspired by the unique terroir of the Finger Lakes, Simon and Jesse evolved from experimenting in the family mill to cofermenting ciders with fruits grown on the farm. Their journey even took him to the United Kingdom, where they studied cider making with the help of their father’s childhood friend.

Simon champions the unique climate of the Finger Lakes, where the soil, microclimates, and even the challenges of fire blight shape the character of each cider. But for Simon, it’s the sense of community that stands out. “The camaraderie between FLX cidermakers is incredible,” he says. Through meetups and festivals, Simon connects with other local legends like Ian Merwin of Black Diamond Cider and Steve Selin of South Hill Cider, sharing knowledge and a passion for crafting quality cider.

For Grisamore Cider Works, cider making isn’t just about apples or tradition—it’s about people. Whether it’s collaborating with fellow makers, meeting cider lovers in his taproom, or sharing stories over a pint, the relationships formed along the way have made this journey deeply fulfilling.