Irish Mountain Orchard: Growing a New Legacy, Rooted in Tradition
We’re excited to introduce you to the new stewards of Irish Mountain Orchard—Jacob and Leslie Lee and their growing family—who are continuing the legacy of love, land, and community that has defined this orchard from the very beginning.
Originally planted in 1970 by Dr. Dwain Merickel, Irish Mountain Orchard began as a retirement passion project and blossomed into a thriving apple farm. Dr. Merickel was one of the early pioneers of planting Honeycrisp apples in Minnesota during the 1990s, and expanded over the years to include Zestar!, Haralson, and Fireside apples. What started with a few rows has since become a beloved local U-pick destination—thanks to his vision, dedication, and love for the land.
Today, this cherished orchard begins a new chapter with the Lee family.
Meet the Lees: Jacob, Leslie & Family
Jacob and Leslie Lee are local to southern Minnesota, with deep roots in small-town life, hard work, and strong family values. Though they spent a couple of years in California, it didn’t take long for them to realize that home was calling—and they returned with a vision to raise their family and build businesses that reflect their love for community and the simple joys of rural life.
Jacob grew up in the city but spent childhood summers on his grandparents’ farm in North Dakota, where he fell in love with the land. Leslie, a true farm girl at heart, was raised picking rocks and selling sweet corn at roadside stands. Today, Leslie is a nurse practitioner specializing in aesthetics and wellness, while Jacob is the steady hand behind the scenes—happiest when working outdoors among the trees.
They’re raising four children—Iszabela (with husband Taylor and their son Estyn), Vanndin, Liviana, and Creidin—and guiding them with the values of hard work, dreaming big, and staying grounded in faith and family. Together, they own and operate Ahavah Cottage (a wedding venue), Lolli Pops Bakery, and now, Irish Mountain Orchard.
