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The Origin Story of Blake’s Hard Cider
Blake’s Hard Cider traces its roots back to a promise made by Gerald Blake to his wife Lovely after returning home from World War II alive. The promise was to leave the city, move north, and start a big family on a farm. In 1946, the couple purchased a 100-acre apple farm in Armada, Michigan, where they raised 13 children.
Twin brothers Pete and Paul Blake, the 11th and 12th children in the family, eventually took over the management of the family business. However, it was Paul’s son, Andrew Blake, a third-generation farmer, who spearheaded the transformation of the business into a cider producer with a national presence. The company is projected to generate around $54 million in revenue by 2024 and over $60 million by 2025.
Andrew Blake conceived the idea for Blake’s Hard Cider while studying at Michigan State University, where he observed the flourishing craft beer scene. After graduating in 2011, Blake delved into two years of “research and development” while still in college, experimenting with cider-making in his garage and sharing samples at tailgate parties.
Blake’s Hard Cider officially launched in 2013, with its flagship product being Triple Jam, a semi-sweet cider infused with strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries. Over the years, the company has expanded its product line and geographical reach, becoming Michigan’s leading cider brand available in 29 states across the Midwest, Southern, and Eastern U.S.
Expansion and Growth
In 2022, Blake’s acquired the Avid Cider Company in the Pacific Northwest, and later formed a partnership with Austin Eastciders based in Texas, creating Blake’s Beverage Company, now the second-largest cider operation in the nation. By leveraging the expertise of industry professionals like Ryan Burk, Vice President of Innovation and Quality, the company has been able to sustain its rapid growth and maintain the uniqueness of its brands.
Looking ahead, innovation in flavor profiles and the introduction of new blends are key drivers for the cider category’s growth. Blake’s Beverage Company continues to focus on creating unique cider varieties that resonate with regional consumers while staying true to its farm-based heritage.
The Future of Blake’s
While Blake’s Hard Cider now has a national presence, the family farm, Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill, remains at the core of the company’s identity. With a sprawling 1,500-acre property dedicated to growing apples and other fruits, the farm attracts millions of visitors annually for apple picking and various entertainment offerings.
Andrew Blake emphasizes the importance of learning and evolving from both the farm and the cider business, showcasing a harmonious relationship that fuels growth and innovation. As the company continues to expand its product portfolio, the essence of the Blake’s Hard Cider brand remains deeply rooted in its family farm heritage.