Distillery Lane Ciderworks: A Premier Maryland Farm & Cidery for Sale

Distillery Lane Ciderworks: A Premier Maryland Farm & Cidery for Sale

Location: 5533 Gapland Rd, Jefferson, MD 21755-9239

Nestled at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Distillery Lane Ciderworks is a historic 94-acre farm and cidery located in Jefferson, Maryland. This property presents a rare opportunity to own a thriving orchard and former cidery business with deep roots in Maryland’s agricultural history. With a beautifully restored historic farmhouse, expansive acreage, and robust infrastructure, this estate offers both an ideal living environment and a prime opportunity to reopen the cidery or expand into other agritourism ventures, such as a winery, food processing, brewery, distillery, or event space.

The Property

The 94.47-acre farm features diverse landscapes, including:

• • 40 Acres of Tillable Land – Currently leased for crop production, with opportunities for farming other crops or expanding into other agricultural uses.
  • 35 Acres of Woodlands – Perfect for timber, conservation, or nature-based tourism.
  • 10 Acres of Apple Orchard – Established with disease-resistant and heritage apple varieties, many of which are specifically grown for cider production. This orchard has been supplying local and regional markets, including Mount Vernon, for years.
  • 8 Acres of Pasture & 2 Acres of Homestead – Ideal for livestock, agricultural expansion, or potential event spaces.

Agricultural and historic easements on the property and surrounding land preserve the scenic viewshed.

Historic Farmhouse (Restored) The centerpiece of the property is a beautifully restored 4,750 SF historic farmhouse, originally built in the 1840s with a rear addition around 1900. Known as the Harley Farm, the property holds historical significance tied to the Battle of Crampton’s Gap during the Civil War. It’s listed on the Maryland Historical Trust for its unique heritage.

The spacious farmhouse includes:

• • 6-7 bedrooms, perfect for family living or B&B potential
  • A cozy living room with a wood fireplace and a gas fireplace in the kitchen
  • Two-zone electric heat with new energy-efficient heat pumps
  • Full attic, new water treatment system, water softener, filtration, and UV treatment
  • Updated plumbing, one well, and two septic systems
  • Two-zone radiator hot water heating system. Oil-fired, used as back-up.
  • New slate roof

Outbuildings & Infrastructure The property is fully equipped with an array of outbuildings, perfect for farming operations, events, or business activities:

• • 36’x60’ Dairy Barn – A historically significant barn that may be restored and repurposed as a tasting room or event venue.
  • 34’x44’ Cider House – Utilized for cider production with room to expand and add new equipment. Was operated as a Maryland-licensed food processing facility. This building features an energy-efficient heating and cooling system.
  • 96’x44’ Storage Shed – Ideal for storage or to house additional farming equipment.
  • 30’x24’ Detached Garage & separate Bottling Shed – Additional facilities to support a growing business.
  • Three Walk-In Coolers

The property is powered by a 25-kw solar energy system, making it an environmentally sustainable choice for modern agriculture and business ventures.

Business History & Opportunities

Cider Business: Previously known as Distillery Lane Ciderworks, this first licensed cidery in Maryland enjoyed success producing craft ciders from its own apple orchards. The business was known for producing a variety of hard ciders, including varieties grown for George Washington’s original cider recipe, which was sold to Mount Vernon. The cidery had a winery license for retail sales and distribution, including to multiple states (MD, VA, DC), and a food processing license for cider production. Although the business ceased operations in 2024, infrastructure and a loyal customer base remain. Trademarks (including “Distillery Lane Ciderworks” and “Celebration Cider”), along with the business website and social media accounts, are included with the sale of the property. Farm equipment is available separately.

Business Expansion Potential: This property offers several opportunities for growth and diversification.

• • Cidery: Expand and revitalize the cidery business with the potential to open a new, larger tasting room in the historic dairy barn.
  • Winery/Brewery: The fertile grounds could be used to plant grapes or to source fruit from local vineyards, or a brewery setup could be integrated into the existing cidery infrastructure.
  • Events: With ample space, including the restored barn, the property is ideal for hosting weddings, family gatherings, or local events. 
  • Farm-to-Table and Food: Offer food services under a winery license or through food trucks.
  • Bottling or Testing for Third Parties: A ready-to-use facility offers the potential to offer bottling and testing services to third-party beverage producers.
  • Hard Cider Sales B2B: Offer hard cider or other beverages to local bars, restaurants, or third-party distributors. Prior customer lists will be provided to the owners.
  • CSA & Fresh Cider Sales: Capitalize on the farm’s fruit by selling fresh apples, bulk cider, or cider products directly to consumers or businesses. Produce apple pie filling or other value-added products. 
  • Airbnb or Bed & Breakfast: The historic farmhouse with its spacious layout offers potential for a B&B or short-term rental.

A Farm with Historical Significance

The Harley Farm is not just a working farm—it’s a place of local history. Tied to the Battle of Crampton’s Gap during the Civil War, the farm is recognized for its historical importance and listed on the Maryland Historical Trust. With easy access to the Appalachian Trail, this property also appeals to those interested in tourism and outdoor activities.

Transition

In 2025, the current owners will prune the orchard, spray the trees as necessary, and market the 2025 apple crop to wholesale buyers. Due to the day-to-day responsibilities of managing the orchard and harvesting the apples, the owners would prefer to continue living at the residence until the end of September (negotiable). Transition assistance is offered. 

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to expand an existing farm business, step into the growing craft beverage industry, or simply seek a serene farm to call home, Distillery Lane Ciderworks offers the infrastructure, historical significance, and business potential for success. With a wide range of opportunities for diversification—ranging from an orchard, cidery, winery, or brewery, to event spaces, food services, or even hospitality—this farm is ready to grow in whatever direction you choose, or provide the peaceful rural living you’ve been dreaming of.

Take advantage of this rare opportunity to own a historic, multi-use property in one of Maryland’s most beautiful and sought-after regions.

Contact us today to learn more about this unique offering and how you can make it your own.

Shown by appointment only. No Drive bys please. Pre-qualification and NDA required.

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