Yates Cider Mill to Open Friday for 10 Days

If you are a cider fan each fall, you're in for a special spring treat coming your way — but it won't last long. 

Michigan apples thrived during the last summer and fall seasons, leading to a "bumper crop" or a bonus spring pressing, for the first time in 20 years.

So,  in Rochester Hills will open back up on Friday, but for 10 days only, if you're up for the 30-minute drive. 

"We're so excited to have a special spring pressing!" Yates owner Katie Titus said. "Last year was the perfect season with no frost or hail damage. For the first time in a long time we have the apples for a spring press."

Yates Cider Mill will be open Friday until April 22. Fresh cider and donuts will be made at the mill daily from 9 a.m.-7 p.m.

The Ice Cream Shoppe will also open for the season on Friday. Ice cream hours are Sunday-Thursday 1-9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m-9 p.m.

A family history

Titus estimated it's been at least 20 years since Yates has had a spring press. And she's been around long enough to know.

Her grandfather, Charles Posey bought the cider mill from the Yates family in 1950.

"My grandpa owned a drive-up diner at the corner of Dequindre and Avon. He made the donuts for the Yates Cider Mill and had a friendship with the family," Titus said. "When they were ready to sell, my grandpa bought the mill."

The mill has been in her family ever since: from grandfather, to father and, five years ago, to Titus.

"We haven't had a spring press in the five years my husband and I have owned the mill but my dad told us to expect to be busy!" Titus said.

The demand for spring cider

It sounds like her dad knows his stuff. 

Originally the spring press was only going to keep the mill open for the two April weekends, but the community feedback was so great Titus decided to keep it open for the full 10 days. 

Her advice to you: indulge now. There won't be fresh-pressed cider again until August.

And with this year's early apples already facing frost damage, don't look for a spring press next year.

This is your rare opportunity. Enjoy!

Yates Cider Mill is located at 1990 E. Avon Rd. Call 248-651-8300 with questions.