Local Spotlight: Big B’s Cider
Email & local spotlight story written by Jessica Wolford Barnes sent to customers on 9/25/20. Click here to view the full spotlight email.
Imagine a place so welcoming, so homey, that it’s like you’ve taken, “a trip back in the past.” Imagine rows and rows of organic fruit trees nestled sweetly in the hills of the Western Slope of Colorado. A fruit-lover’s paradise exists, and it can be found at Big B’s Fruit Company in Hotchkiss, CO.
Tony’s Meats & Market CEO Daniel Rosacci, family (and dogs) in tow, paid a visit to Big B’s this summer to meet with Jeff Schwartz, owner of Big B’s Fruit Company, and tour the ~30-acre orchard. “All of your team members are always welcome with us as friends & family,” Jeff told Daniel after their visit, further demonstrating the hospitality and kindness of Big B’s.
“Jeff is just the nicest guy in the world,” Daniel recalls. “He was out walking us around the fields on crutches!”
Not to worry, though! Jeff has plenty of help. He and his family not only work the fields and run the business; they live right on the farm to be closer to the day-to-day operations and, of course, the fruit!
Being so close to their products and living right on the farm means that community, sustainability, and minimal environmental impact are crucial daily aspects to Big B’s and the Schwartz family. A proud member of the Valley Organic Growers Association, Big B’s is committed to sustaining the land and providing healthy products to customers. You can also find products from other local growers and farms for sale in their orchard store!
Big B’s is known for their wide variety of cider and other apple-based juices, but they have a lot more to offer. From their UPick program for picking your own fruits & vegetables, to tire swings, picnic lunches, and live music on the weekends, Big B’s is happy to welcome your whole family to the orchard and cider mill.
"WHEN YOU STEP INTO DELICIOUS ORCHARDS, YOU STEP INTO A TIME WHEN EVERYTHING IS SIMPLE: GOOD FOOD AND GOOD FRIENDS ARE ABUNDANT AND ENTERTAINMENT IS A ROPE HANGING FROM A TREE BRANCH. COME ENJOY OUR FRESH PRODUCE, HOMEMADE CIDERS, AND JUICES. SWING FROM A TREE AND SIP LEMONADE. EAT HOMEMADE PIE. RELAX AND ENJOY." - Big B's
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, so stop by Tony’s to support Big B’s with a purchase of their delicious cider. (The spiced cider is great hot or cold, so it’s the perfect option for our crazy Colorado weather!)
