Story by Katharine Fletcher; photos by Eric Fletcher
Greg Graham is proud of his family’s business they’ve operated since 2008. “I grow Macintosh, Empire, Gala, Spartans and other apples. After my brother purchased the heritage 1930’s Coronation Hall in 2003 that’s close to my orchard, we realized it’d make a perfect location for our apple business. We built a pressing room where we crush apples to make juice and hard cider – and of course, my Mum needed a kitchen and café to make pies, muffins and preserves.”
Scents of hot mulled cider and freshly baked cookies greeted us while entering Coronation Hall, where Garry and Norma Graham and their son Greg welcomed us. All work hands-on, creating delicious, authentic products from le terroir of the Pontiac.
In apple season, presses hum while people get their bushels of apples processed into juice that’s poured into bottles to take home.
“We’re open from May through Christmas,” says Norma. “But we’re flexible. We particularly welcome telephone calls and we’re always open for groups – even for a couple. So please don’t be shy: call whether you want to come for pie – or to plan your wedding here.”
Adds Garry, “Something’s always happening. Come summertime the Pontiac Community Players put on plays in the old dance hall, and we also host live music shows.”
Meanwhile, on February 15, 1:00 – 5:00, Ski Pontiac hosts a cross-country ski event across the street, and Coronation Hall will be open to serve cider and goodies.
So really: don’t be shy! Give the Grahams a call – and experience their traditional welcome.
To inquire or plan your visit: Cidrerie Coronation Hall Cider Mills 206 Chemin River, Bristol, QC coronationhall.com (819) 647-2547