About Vander Mill

Our Story

In 2006, Paul and Amanda Vander Heide started Vander Mill with a simple belief: Michigan apples make the best cider. Working with local growers who share their respect for the fruit, they turned a small-town cidery into something Michigan can be proud of – honest cider, crafted with care.

2005

The Early Days

In 2005, Paul and Amanda Vander Heide sketched out plans for a traditional cider mill in Spring Lake, Michigan. By 2006, Vander Mill opened its doors, and with Michigan’s apple-rich soil beneath our feet, hard cider was the natural next step.

Photo Credit: Grand Rapids Magazine

2009

A Cider Revolution Begins

2009 marked our first hard cider release, and word spread fast. By 2014, we were helping establish the Michigan Cider Association, bringing together folks who believe in pushing craft cider forward.

Photo Credit: Grand Rapids Magazine

2015

Growth with Integrity

2015 brought big changes when we found our new home – an old beer distribution building in Grand Rapids. We lifted the entire roof three feet to fit our 12,000-gallon fermentation tanks, brought on cider maker Dave Bayes, and by 2016, we were pressing apples in Grand Rapids. When 2020 came around, we said goodbye to Spring Lake to focus on our expanded operation.

Today

Our Promise Remains Unchanged

These days, you’ll find our cider in seven Midwest states, with online shipping to 38 states. We even added craft beer to the lineup in 2022. But some things don’t change – we’re still pressing Michigan apples, still experimenting with new ideas, and still committed to excellence, every step of the way.

Fill Your Glass

From Michigan orchards to your glass — welcome to the Vander Mill story.

Memberships

Founding member of the Michigan Cider Association.

Participations

Hop Passport

KDAle

Grand Rapids Cider Week / Cider Fest

Awards

Revue Magazine Best of the West (Michigan), 2016-2022, 12+ for Cider / Cidery

GLINTCAP (Great Lakes International Cider & Perry) Competition, 2008-2024, 100 Awards

Sagardo Forum (Spain), 2019, 6 Awards Including a Best in Show