Our recipe pays homage to Arthur "Skipper" Ford, who made cider and farmhouse applejack from the exceptional heirloom apples that he grew at his ranch on Howell Mountain (Napa County). As a manager for the Dole Fruit Company, Skipper had access to heirloom varieties of fruit, many of which he cultivated on the ranch. The Arkansas Black Apple, with its tart flavor, was a family favorite. Sadly, Skipper and the Timberlane Ranch are long gone.
After years of hearing the legends of Skipper and his Applejack, John convinced his wife (and greatgranddaughter of Skipper), Samantha, to take a stab at recreating this classic spirit. We hope that you enjoy it as much as we do.