467: Canton Apples and Frosty Twig: New York Cider Makers Unite

How Canton Apples and Frosty Twig Fused Two Brands into One

In New York’s “North of Upstate” region, in the town of Canton is the Canton Apples production building. It is now also home of a partnership shaping the local cider scene. Owner Joel Howie and cider maker Dan Gallagher live just a mile apart, and their skills mesh perfectly. Joel brings over a decade of experience growing apples, pressing sweet cider, and creating value-added products. Dan, a passionate fermenter, was ready to move beyond hobby scale when the two connected.

Two Brands, One Vision

Under Canton Apples & Cider, LLC, two product lines take shape:

• Canton Apples – approachable, consistent ciders for everyday enjoyment.

• Frosty Twig – small-batch, specialty ciders showcasing unique apples, fruits, and wild fermentation.

Production takes place in a purpose-built facility designed for growth, with future plans for a taproom overlooking the orchard.

Orchard Practices & Apple Diversity

Between their combined orchards, Joel and Dan care for over 250 apple varieties — many planted by Bill McKentley of St. Lawrence Nurseries. These heritage and cold-hardy apples thrive in Zone 4, and every apple grown is put to use. When supplies run short, apples are sourced from other New York regions.

Cider Making Approach

Ciders range from wild-fermented pet-nats to cultured yeast ferments for consistency. Specialty ciders include

• Turkey Tree
• Wild Berry
• Pear cider

Most ciders age 9–10 months before release, allowing flavors to develop naturally.

Contact info for Canton Apples

• Website: https://cantonapples.com
• Listen to episode 407: Cider Log Tutorial w/Frosty Twig

Mentions in this Cider Chat

• Totally Cider Tour_UK Edition 2025
  • Sign up for the “early-to-know” wait list for upcoming 2026 Totally Cider Tours
    • Let us know how many in your party
• 33 Books Company – Dave Selden has cider log books!
• Vermont and New York Cider Road Trip series
  • Part 1- 464: Czech Cider: From Roadside Apples to Cellar Ferments
  • Part 2 –465: The Integrated Table: Cider, Food, and Farming at 1000 Stone Farm
  • Part 3 – 466: Growing Cold-Hardy Trees at Saint Lawrence Nursery | NY

Episode 467 Canton Apples and Frosty Twig Summary

Canton Apples & Cider, LLC, based in New York’s “North of Upstate” region, unites orchardist Joel Howie and cider maker Dan Gallagher under two complementary brands: Canton Apples and Frosty Twig. Together, they manage over 250 apple varieties, many from St. Lawrence Nurseries, producing both approachable, consistent ciders and small-batch, specialty offerings like Turkey Tree, Wild Berry, and pear cider. Their purpose-built facility supports growth, with plans for a taproom. Ciders are crafted using both cultured and wild fermentations, often aged 9–10 months. The business focuses on community engagement through farmers’ markets, wholesale accounts, and regional expansion across Zone 4.