Cadets Visit Marist for ACS Talk

The local chapter of the West Point American Chemical Society (ACS) visited Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY to participate in a Mid-Hudson ACS talk on the chemistry of fermentation in the production of alcoholic apple cider. The talk was presented by Tim Dressel, a graduate of the Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Science, and owner of Kettleborough Cider House in New Paltz, NY. Mr. Dressel discussed the rapid growth in popularity of hard apple ciders in America along with the science and art of producing a quality product. At the heart of the process of fermentation is the proper monitoring and control of the aqueous environment with a focus on the acidity (pH) during the fermentation cycle to ensure an ideal environment for the yeast to produce ethanol and flavor. Representatives from West Point included LTC Bahaghighat and Cadets Ross Poulin '19, Jared Hudspeth '21, and Rachael Dodson '22.