Page 39 - WINE DINE AND TRAVEL MAGAZINE SUMMER 2021 DISCOVERING MENDOCINO

PHILO APPLE FARM

Before we left the Long Meadow Ranch tasting,
Mark mentioned we might enjoy the yearly crush
of apples for cider at the nearby Philo Apple Farm.
We agreed and on a second visit to the Valley a
few days later; we found the farm tucked away on
a narrow paved road just off Highway 128.
The crush was underway as we parked and
walked over to watch the four-person crew -
Mark among them - toss apples into the maw of
the clanking machine and follow their transforma-
tion into sweet juice. They paused briefly to wel-
come us with a complimentary tasting of the
morning’s crush and then went back to work.
Steps away is a self-service farm stand with a
wide selection of apples, juices, and cheese pro-
duced at the farm. Purchases are on the honor
system: Shoppers select their items and leave
money in a box.
The mouth watering scent of apples floated on
the moist morning air as we headed off to explore
the farm’s rustic buildings, gardens and orchards.
Don and Sally Schmitt founded the farm nearly 40
years ago when they owned The French Laundry
in Yountville. The couple opened and operated the
famous dining spot for 16 years before selling it to

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