Some dreams start small, growing quietly in the corners of garages and basements before they bloom into something greater. For Dustin and Leann Beagell, what began as a simple experiment in home cidermaking has evolved into New Leaf Cider, a thriving business deeply rooted in family, community, and craftsmanship.

Dustin’s journey into cider started with a love for brewing and an even greater love for sharing something special with his wife. “My wife didn’t like beer – or maybe just the beer I was making – so I decided to try making a cider,” Dustin recalled. That first batch, known today as First Leaf, was a revelation. Both Dustin and Leann enjoyed it, and when they shared it with seasoned cider makers at an Albany farm cideries gathering, the positive feedback was overwhelming.

Timing, however, was not on their side. Just as New Leaf was taking shape, the COVID-19 pandemic threw a wrench into traditional business plans. Rather than stall, the Beagells adapted. Dustin bottled cider and delivered it door-to-door, while Leann tapped into her network to spread the word. They set up at farmers markets, offered samples, and built a following—one customer at a time. Soon, local bars began adding New Leaf to their taps, and momentum grew.

With demand rising, it was time to build a space of their own. True to their values, the Beagells made it a family affair. Dustin, his brothers, and his father constructed the production facility and tasting room themselves, shaping a space that reflected their dedication and vision. When New Leaf opened its doors in 2023, they were blown away by the community’s response—over 2,000 people showed up to celebrate. “Seeing so many people we know and love, supporting us and embracing this dream—it was incredible,” Leann said.

Rooted in Community

New Leaf Cider is more than just a cidery; it’s a testament to the power of relationships. The Beagells are passionate about supporting their local community, sourcing 100% New York State apples and collaborating with nearby farmers and artisans. From locally crafted charcuterie boards to ingredients sourced from their own backyard, everything they do is about strengthening ties with the region they call home.

And that sense of community extends beyond just sourcing ingredients—it’s at the heart of the experience they’ve created. Their taproom, located in Port Crane, NY, is designed to be a welcoming space for everyone. With live music, trivia nights, stand-up comedy, and games on the patio, New Leaf has become a place where families and friends can gather, relax, and enjoy great cider together.

Looking to the Future

Sustainability and thoughtful growth are key to New Leaf’s vision for the future. Dustin hopes to expand distribution throughout the Northeast, ensuring that New Leaf remains a regional brand that stays true to its roots. He also envisions more collaborations with local farmers and cheese makers, further deepening the connection between cider and the land that nurtures it.

For those aspiring to follow in his footsteps, Dustin’s advice is clear: never stop learning. He encourages new cider makers to seek out as much training as possible, from classes to certifications with institutions like the Cider Institute. “Cider making is an art,” he explains. “Every apple is different, every fermentation tells its own story. The more you listen to the fruit and the process, the better your cider will be.”

Join the New Leaf Cider Club

For cider lovers looking for a deeper connection to New Leaf, the Cider Club offers exclusive perks, including behind-the-scenes production tours, early access to new releases, and even opportunities to vote on new cider flavors and names. Membership isn’t just about great deals—it’s about becoming part of the New Leaf family and sharing in the passion that drives everything they do.

From a garage experiment to a bustling cidery, Dustin and Leann Beagell have shown that great things happen when passion, family, and community come together. And with every pour of New Leaf Cider, they continue to turn a new page in their story—one that is only just beginning.