Westwind Orchard is a family-owned and operated orchard located in Kerhonkson, NY. The orchard offers a wide variety of fruits, including apples, peaches, and pears. The owners, Laura and Fabio, are committed to sustainable farming practices and have been certified organic since 2008.
Visitors to Westwind Orchard can enjoy a unique and authentic farm experience. The orchard is open to the public for pick-your-own fruit during the harvest season, which typically runs from July to October. In addition, the orchard hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including live music, game nights, and a kids’ summer series. The orchard also has a cidery on site, where visitors can enjoy a glass of dry and unfiltered cider made from the orchard’s own apples.
Overall, Westwind Orchard is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and educational farm experience. The orchard’s commitment to sustainable farming practices and its variety of events make it a unique and enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages.
History and Philosophy
Origins of Westwind Orchard
Westwind Orchard is a 32-acre apple orchard located in Kerhonkson, NY. The orchard was purchased in 2002 by Fabio Chizzola and Laura Ferrara. The couple set about reviving the orchard, diversifying the crop, and implementing sustainable agricultural practices.
The land on which the orchard sits has a rich history. According to Ulster County NY Tourism, the hamlets of Accord and Kerhonkson boast the largest number of continuously inhabited old-stone houses in New York. The orchard is located in the Rondout Valley, which has a long history of agriculture.
Mission and Agricultural Practices
Westwind Orchard is committed to sustainable agriculture and organic farming practices. According to their website, everything grown at the orchard is certified organic. The orchard also practices regenerative agriculture, which is a holistic approach to farming that focuses on improving soil health and biodiversity.
The orchard has a deep reverence for the land and the trees. They believe that the health of the soil is essential to the health of the trees and the quality of the fruit they produce. They use cover crops, compost, and other natural methods to enrich the soil and promote biodiversity.
In addition to apples, Westwind Orchard also grows other fruits and vegetables, including pears, plums, peaches, and raspberries. They also have a farm store and a café where visitors can enjoy seasonal dishes made with ingredients grown on the farm. Overall, Westwind Orchard is a prime example of a successful and sustainable small-scale organic orchard.
The Orchard Experience
Westwind Orchard is a beautiful apple orchard located in Kerhonkson, NY. The orchard is a perfect place to spend a day with family and friends, enjoying the beautiful scenery and participating in a variety of seasonal activities.
Seasonal Activities
The orchard offers a variety of seasonal activities throughout the year. During the fall season, visitors can take a hayride through the orchard, pick their own apples, and enjoy a delicious apple cider donut. In the winter, visitors can enjoy outdoor seating and warm up with a hot cup of cider. In the spring and summer, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a leisurely walk through the orchard.
Family and Pet-Friendly Atmosphere
Westwind Orchard is a family and pet-friendly destination. Visitors are welcome to bring their dogs as long as they are kept on a leash. The orchard offers a variety of activities for kids, including a playground and a petting zoo. Families can also enjoy a picnic on the grounds while taking in the beautiful views of the orchard.
Overall, Westwind Orchard is a perfect destination for families and friends looking for a fun day out. With its beautiful scenery, seasonal activities, and family and pet-friendly atmosphere, the orchard is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
Culinary Offerings
Westwind Orchard is not only known for its beautiful orchards and scenic views but also for its artisanal food and drinks. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious and fresh items made from locally sourced ingredients.
Artisanal Food and Drinks
Westwind Orchard offers an extensive menu of artisanal food and drinks that are sure to satisfy any craving. The menu includes a range of pizzas, salads, pasta dishes, and roasted potatoes. The Margarita Pizza, made in a wood-fired oven, is a fan favorite. The Kale Salad with roasted potatoes, olives, and anchovies is another popular dish that is both healthy and tasty.
In addition to food, Westwind Orchard also offers a variety of ciders, beers, and jams. The ciders are made from fresh apples and come in a range of flavors, including dry and sweet. The beers are also locally sourced and pair well with the cured meats and cheeses offered on the menu. The jams are made from fresh fruits and are perfect for spreading on toast or adding to your favorite dish.
Signature Menus
Westwind Orchard offers a range of signature menus that are perfect for any occasion. The Carbonara menu, for example, includes a delicious pasta dish made with fresh ingredients and served with a side of salad. The Gelato menu, on the other hand, offers a range of sweet treats that are perfect for dessert.
Overall, Westwind Orchard prides itself on offering quality, delicious food and drinks that are made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a variety of flavors and dishes that are sure to satisfy any craving.
Local and Organic Products
Westwind Orchard is known for its locally produced, certified organic products. Visitors can purchase these products at the farm store, which is open every weekend from August to October from 11am to 6pm. The farm store selection includes a variety of organic apples, berries, garlic, and other local products.
Farm Store Selection
The farm store at Westwind Orchard offers a wide variety of organic products that are grown and produced on-site. Visitors can purchase organic apples, berries, and garlic, as well as locally produced cider and apple jam. All of these products are certified organic, ensuring that visitors are getting high-quality, healthy products that are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides.
In addition to the organic products, Westwind Orchard also offers a selection of locally produced cider. The cider is made from the apples grown on the orchard and is available in limited quantities. Visitors can sample the cider at the farm store and purchase it by the bottle.
Overall, the farm store at Westwind Orchard is a great place to find locally produced, certified organic products. Visitors can be confident that they are getting high-quality, healthy products that are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides.
Events and Community Engagement
Westwind Orchard is an active member of the Hudson Valley community, engaging with customers and locals alike through a variety of events and workshops.
Workshops and Tours
The orchard hosts workshops on a wide range of topics, from cider making to flower arranging. These events are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, giving attendees an opportunity to learn new skills while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of the orchard. Workshops are led by experts in their respective fields, ensuring that participants receive high-quality instruction.
In addition to workshops, Westwind Orchard also offers tours of the orchard. These tours provide visitors with an up-close look at the orchard’s operations, including the biointensive farming techniques used to cultivate the fruit. Tours are available by appointment, and are a great way to learn more about the orchard’s commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Local Collaborations
Westwind Orchard is committed to supporting other local businesses and artisans. The orchard regularly collaborates with other Hudson Valley producers to create unique and delicious products. For example, the orchard has worked with local honey producers to create a line of honey-infused ciders, and has partnered with a local pizza maker to offer wood-fired pizzas made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
In addition to these collaborations, Westwind Orchard is also a frequent host of community events. These events range from live music performances to art shows, and are designed to bring together members of the local community in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. By hosting these events, Westwind Orchard is able to support local artists and musicians while also providing a space for community members to connect and socialize.
Overall, Westwind Orchard’s commitment to community engagement and events reflects the orchard’s deep roots in the Hudson Valley. By offering workshops, tours, and collaborations with other local businesses, the orchard is able to share its passion for sustainable agriculture and delicious fruit with the wider community.
Visiting Westwind Orchard
Westwind Orchard is a picturesque orchard and cidery located in Accord, New York. It is a perfect place to spend a day with friends and family while enjoying the beautiful scenery and delicious food.
Hours and Accessibility
Westwind Orchard is open every Thursday and Friday from 5 pm to 8 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 8 pm. The orchard is located at 215 Lower Whitfield Road, Accord, NY 12404. It is easily accessible by car and there is ample parking available on site.
Reservation and Seating Options
Westwind Orchard offers both indoor and outdoor seating options. There are plenty of picnic tables and benches available for visitors to enjoy their food and drinks. During the colder months, there is a cozy indoor area with seating available.
Reservations are not required, but they are highly recommended, especially during peak hours. Visitors can make reservations through the orchard’s website or by calling (845) 626-0659. Westwind Orchard also offers take-out options for those who prefer to enjoy their food on the go.
Overall, Westwind Orchard is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun day out in Accord, New York. With its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and friendly staff, it is sure to be a memorable experience for all who visit.