A toast: to family, apples and Farmhaus Cider Co

Nearly 150 years ago, a family emigrated from Germany to Michigan and began a farm on land near what is now Hudsonville.

Fast forward to 2014: John Behrens, a direct descendant of the pioneering family from Germany, is renovating the original barn and is part of a group of entrepreneurs launching Farmhaus Cider Co. -- a venture that will be brewing (more technically, fermenting) small batch, authentic ciders "with apples from farmers we personally know and who are invested in our own neighborhood."

Behrens says the business is a team effort, working with his partners Megan Odegaard and Ken Gauld, but it is a very personal journey for him: "The farm has been in my family for nearly 150 years and, in an effort to keep it in the family, I bought it a few years ago."

He says the idea for the business was sparked while he was traveling. "While on a trip to Germany investigating the family heritage I discovered the many types of amazing cider available and the idea for Farmhaus was born. Upon returning to the U.S. I partnered with a friend and long-time homebrewer and cider maker and we began to work at determining the perfect recipe for Farmhaus. We're proud of what we've come up with and excited for you to try it," Behrens says.

Behrens says the company will be releasing two ciders on draft in the next two months throughout Grand Rapids: Trocken (dry) and and Halbbitter (semi sweet). Behrens says he hopes to release cans late this winter and plans to add a tasting room down the line after that at the old farm. "This is a passion project," he says. "We are all very passionate about the property and its history, and the significance of cider in that. We are working tirelessly to restore this property and share the joy that we have found in it and we sincerely hope that this is what our customers will find in our product."

As part of their business plan, building a strong community is a key component. "We are inviting customers to get involved in the launch of this exciting new concept by sponsoring an heirloom cider apple tree in the Farmhaus Orchard. Next spring we are hosting a Spring Planting Party where you will be able to plant the tree you sponsor into the orchard while enjoying some great cider. Plus it also makes a great Christmas gift!  Just visit farmhauscider.com to get involved and don't forget to ask your favorite bartender for a Farmhaus!" Behrens adds.

Writer: John Rumery, Innovation and Jobs News Editor.