The agreement between the Companies provides for BC Tree Fruits to become Lonetree’s leading supplier of 100 per cent BC produced apple-wine, as an augment to Lonetree’s current production and supply sources. Cellaring, blending and aging processes will remain with Lonetree to their closely guarded recipes.

“We developed Lonetree ciders from a desire to create an authentic, extra dry cider style as an alternative to the highly sweetened, flavored ciders that have previously dominated in the province,” said Bruce Dean who co-founded The LoneTree Cider Company with wife Suzie, just four years ago.

“Who would have thought our Lonetree Authentic Dry Cider would become the most-loved Canadian cider available in BC” they said. “A relationship with BC’s largest fruit grower co-operative is a natural fit as our business grows and we look to expand into other markets”.

This development aligns  with BC Tree Fruits mandate to support  grower families who often need a value- add market for fruit not destined for the fresh retail market, said Alan Tyabji, BC Tree Fruits CEO.

“We couldn’t be more pleased than to expand upon our business with a BC based cider producer who shares our values and wishes to work with us to raise the standards for the BC Cider Industry,” Tyabji said.

Lonetree Cider Co. produces three recipes, an Authentic Dry, Ginger Apple and Cranberry Apple Cider, available in 6x355ml cans, at Government and Private Retailers, as well as on draught at pubs & restaurants across the province. Lonetree Authentic Dry Cider is the No. 1 Selling Domestic Cider in the province, based upon BCLDB Data at July 2015.