Our Roots are in Williamson, NY

rootstock cider & spirits is a farmstead cidery & craft spirits distillery located in williamson, ny. founded in 2012 by david defisher, rootstock cider & spirits — the first post-prohibition farmstead cidery in the rochester region — is dedicated to using only locally sourced ingredients in crafting premium ciders, perry, and spirits. with a commitment to sustainability, we utilize a solar energy system to offset our power requirements. by pairing with other local farmers, we ensure all of our natural by-products are put to good use, and returned to the land.

after acquiring rootstock in 2024, current partners, brian shadduck & bill hollebrandt (both proudly from williamson), are excited to build upon the incredible rootstock legacy the defisher family created, while evolving the business into its next chapter. today’s rootstock is proud to offer an expanded tap room with functional loft, multiple events spaces, new bathrooms, incredible food menu, a full bar, and entertainment for everyone. we’re open seven days a week…stop by and see us!

  • brian shadduck

    partner & general manager

    a williamson native, brian has been a part of rootstock since 2016. working for the founders, the defisher family, he held multiple roles, including leading up sales and distribution and managing the tasting room. as general manager, brian continues to wear multiple hats, with his focus on managing the rootstock team, running daily operations, and growing the business. he’s excited to be leading the next chapter of rootstock. brian lives in williamson with his wife and two kids.

  • bill hollebrandt

    partner & facilities manager

    bill is the main man behind the magic of rootstock’s transformation. bill has been in the construction industry for over 15 years, running his own construction business in his “spare time.” he grew up in williamson and is proud of creating the perfect hang out spot for the community. bill spearheads our cornhole leagues and line dancing (with his wife jen). bill additionally manages our facilities, ensuring everything is always running smoothly, and will continue renovations on the property, making rootstock the premier destination in apple country. bill lives in henrietta with jen and their son.

  • kristen dennie

    events, merchandise, & social media

    kristen, a first grade teacher in wayne county, loves to find new ways to be creative, and is driven by bringing new ideas to life. what better way to do that than managing our events, social media, and our merchandise offerings?! additionally, she’s behind the wheel of our social media and ensures our shelves are always stocked with everyone’s favorite apparel and glassware. she’s focused on making rootstock a place where the community can gather and share memorable experiences. kristen lives in fairport with her husband and two children.

  • donnie fornataro & rocco petrus

    culinary masters

    donnie and Rocco both graduated from the flcc culinary program and bring 10 years of experience to rootstock. donnie started as a prep cook in high school and has grown into roles across the restaurant industry. Rocco has been working in restaurants in New York and other states and finally landed here! they cook up mouth watering dishes for our customers while singing and dancing in the kitchen!