Considering buying a side of beef

adajmk

I am in Northern Virginia, just outside of DC and am interested in buying a side of beef with another family. Any recommendations on ranchers in this area that sell sides?  We would want it fully processed and frozen to stick right in a freezer.

I have spoken to a few local farmers/ranchers as well as a nearby meat processor and I have seen a pretty big price range.  My friend is interested in natural/organic so I expect to pay a little more but I have no idea how much more.

Any advice/suggestions would be welcome.  

Medicman627

I've thought about it quite a bit myself.  The beef is sold by hanging weight and usually can be split between a whole, half and quarter.  The more beef you buy, the cheaper it is by the pound.  Usually you have to put in a deposit, and then arrange to get the meat in 3-6 weeks, depending on who you go through.  I'd start by looking here: http://www.eatwild.com/products/index.html.

Good luck......

Acn

Check out Roseda Beef (http://www.rosedabeef.com/) from up the road a bit in Baltimore. I don't know how their prices for sides compare, but I've had their steaks and can definitely vouch for the quality of the meat.

Hi54putty

I bought a side in the very southern most part of Virginia for $5/lb sealed and labeled. Some of the best beef I have ever eaten.