We began making hard cider at the beginning of 2012 and released our first batch in the summer of that same year. Paul Jacobs, owner of Von Jakob and maker of the hard cider states, “It has been something we’ve wanted to do for a while. We have the apple orchards, we have the equipment, we already have a Jonathan apple wine; so it just made sense.”
Streakin’ Johnny Hard Apple Cider was named after John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed, who helped introduce apple trees to large parts of Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois in the early 1800s. “Streakin’” is derived from a hint of oak added to increase complexity, a process known as “wine streaking.” We combined these two principles to come up with the playful name of Streakin’ Johnny Hard Apple Cider, which is depicted in the label.
Flavor Profile
Crisp, clean and refreshing with just a bit of sweetness. Made with as much Southern Illinois apples as we can get, the majority of which is from our very own apple orchards.
Awards
Less than a year after its initial release (Summer 2012), our Streakin’ Johnny Hard Apple Cider is already racking up awards. Streakin’ Johnny received a trophy for the 2013 Fruit Wine of the Year, along with a Double Gold Medal and Best-of-Class Honors, at the Indy International Wine Competition held in late July. With over 2300 entries from 40 states and 15 countries, Indy International is the largest scientifically organized and independent wine competition in the United States. Earlier in July 2013, Streakin’ Johnny earned Best-of-Class Honors and a Silver Medal in the Illinois State Fair Wine Competition. With a product like Streakin’ Johnny, it is easy to see why the hard cider industry is the fastest growing industry in the beverage world.
Von Jakob beers are currently only available on location and in various retail locations.