The Zarpentine Farm Story

There is a rich (and somewhat complex) heritage that comes from being born and raised on a family farm like Zarpentine Farms. This farm has been in the Zarpentine family (inherently the Taber family) since the 1830’s.

The farm originally thrived through the sales of cash crops, until the bottom of those markets eventually dropped in the early 1970’s. In a feeble attempt to above a struggling economy, we even resorted to raising black Angus beef for a time. Despite those darker times, in 1976 the Zarpentines decided to make a shift in the way that we farm.

That fall we opened up the retail farm market that still exists today.  We decided against continuing our sales in the unpredictable market of cash crops and instead found the key to our success… apples. We began planting fruit trees, adding more acres every year until they came to the stage they are in now.  Over the years we have even incorporated a cider press and bakery into their operation (home to the baked goods and cider that you have all come to know and adore).

Beginning in 2001, we also decided to begin a cutting edge agri-tainment venture that has now become one of the main attractions of our farm (besides our world famous fritter, of course). The MAiZE has shown that there can be a unique way to have a great family outing at an affordable (and rewarding!) price.

Be sure to visit our farm market and MAiZE to see how the future generations of the Zarpentine family have continued to follow to grow the tradition of family farming in upstate New York!