A Northern Michigan cider made by Two K Farms in Suttons Bay was the only cider in the country to earn a Jefferson Cup at the 2019 Jefferson Cup Invitational Wine Competition. (Just in time to serve at holiday parties.)
The Jefferson Cup Invitational Wine Competition hosted its 20th year as the only competition that honors the best of the best among wineries from all of America’s wine regions and is frequently referred to as the “Olympics” of wine competitions. The event is an invitation-only competition organized by Master Sommelier and Master of Wine Doug Frost, who is one of only four wine professionals in the world to hold both titles.
Each year, wineries that exemplify the best in viticulture and winemaking are selected to participate in the competition. Less than five percent of all North American producers are invited. The 2019 competition included 750 wineries from 27 states and in the end only 35 wines and one cider were awarded the highest award, the prestigious Jefferson Cup—Two K Farms Rosé Cider was the only cider in the entire country to be awarded a Jefferson Cup. Two K Farms was also awarded a Jefferson Cup for its 2017 Riesling and received Silver Medals for its Kingston Black, Golden Russet, New World and Cherry Ciders and 2017 Bubbly Riesling. The cidery/winery received Bronze Medals for its Old World Cider and Colonnade Apple Wine.
Two K Farms was purchased in 2010 by the Koskela family and is owned and operated by brothers George and Max Koskela. Located on the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula north of Traverse City, the farm is nestled in a valley with a unique micro-climate perfect for growing heirloom cider apples and wine grapes. The brothers officially opened the doors to their tasting room the summer of 2018. It rests high on one of the hills offering visitors panoramic views of West Grand Traverse Bay, Power Island and beyond. All of their hard ciders and wines are grown and produced on-site.