Hudson Valley's rich terroir plays a large part in the delicious taste of our grass-fed and pasture-raised jerky. But that's not all it can do. For centuries brewers have taken advantage of the unique minerals and nutrients found in our land to create some great tasting beer and cider.
Lucky for us - and you - some of the best can be found within 20 miles of our small farm. So, after stopping by to pick up your favorite meat snack with us, finish up your day at one of these incredible breweries.*
Miles from Karl Family Farms: 9
Average drive time: 14-16 minutes
Founded by a 6th generation Hudson Valley apple farmer Bad Seed Hard Cider is known for their famously dry apple cider.
Visit their "farm Bar," a small taproom and food truck located at the historic Wilklow Orchards, where you can sip on their cider against the backdrop of the orchard they started in. If you're feeling active, you can pick apples in the fall or gather berries in the summer. They also host weekly Friday night music events in the summer, as well as private events like baby showers, bar-mitzvahs, and weddings.
To see more Bad Seed, mosey five more minutes down the road to their cidery and taproom, where the production action happens. There, they carry even more of their flagship flavors as well as many experimental brews.
Contact:
43 Baileys Gap Road
Highland, New York 12528
info@badseedhardcider.com
845-236-0956
Miles from Karl Family Farms: 7
Average drive time: 12-14 minutes
Don't let the name fool you, this award-winning New York State brewery is located on an orchard in the Hudson Valley just a short drive from our farm, not in New York City.
Founded in 2014 by siblings, a wine retailer and a teacher, Brooklyn Cider House makes the kind of complex cider that is perfect for pairing with food. The duo took over and revitalized the historic Twin Star Orchards, where they create ciders based on the philosophy of minimal intervention. They ferment and age their apples anywhere from 2-18 months, encouraging wild yeast and microbes to leave a "regional" mark on their flavor.
If you visit, you'll find wood-fired pizzas and burgers to balance out the libations. And if you pop in on the weekends, there's a good chance you'll catch local musical performances. Pet owners take note: they are dog friendly as long as you keep Fido on a leash.
Contact:
155 N Ohioville Road
New Paltz, New York 12561
845-633-8657
Miles from Karl Family Farms: 20
Average Drive Time: 30-33 minutes
The farthest of our favorites, a trip to Arrowood Farms Brewery and Distillery is always worth the drive. Located on a 48-acre farm in the quaint and historic hamlet of Accord, New York, their focus is capturing the flavor of Hudson Valley terroir in their beers and small-batch spirits. They source nearly everything right from their farm, including all hops, fruits, and herbs. Some ingredients are even foraged right from the woods surrounding the farm.
You'll find 15 beers on tap at the onsite restaurant called, "The Apiary," but be sure to ask about their real apiary, where they cultivate fresh honey from bees.
When they're not creating uniquely New York beers and spirits, they also rent the farm for weddings.
If the drive is too far, you can still snag a taste just 6 miles away from our Farm in New Paltz. There, you'll find the Arrowood Outpost a cozy taproom with an outdoor deck and a small menu of nibbles.
Contact:
236 Lower Whitfield Rd.
Accord, NY 12404
845-253-0389
Miles from Karl Family Farms: 4.4
Average drive time: 8-9 minutes
For a taste of European brews, Yard Owl Brewery is your best choice. Known for their ever-changing roster of Belgian-inspired suds, its smaller than some of the other breweries on this list, but that's what makes it a local's favorite.
While the beer is the main attraction, don't visit here without also trying their delicious homemade snacks like snacks like pickled veggies, eggs, beer mustards, and their famous coffee. It's not as random as it may sound; the owners also run the Mudd Puddle Caf, a beloved coffee shop in New Paltz, New York.
They offer private brewery tours, which come with a tasting of four beers on tap plus a cheese and charcutier spread.
Contact:
19 Osprey Lane
Gardiner, NY 12525
Muddmail@gmail.com
Miles from Karl Family Farms: 2.8 miles
Average drive time: 4-5 minutes
Gardiner Brewing Company is the closest brewery to Karl Family Farms on this list. Located practically across the street on the historic Wright Family Farm, it's found in a gorgeous 80-year-old dairy barn that has been converted into a brewery, tap room and event space.
Specializing in beers made from local ingredients, you'll find a great selection of seasonal beers in addition to a small bar menu. If you visit on the weekends, there's a good chance you'll find live music and other local entertainment.
Contact:
699 Rt. 208
Gardiner, NY 12525
845-255-5200
*Since Covid-19, visitation policies have been changing rapidly. Please contact the brewery directly prior to visiting to ensure they are open.