ACA Welcomes 2 New Certified Pommeliers™ following CiderWorld 2026
The American Cider Association (ACA) is proud to announce the induction of two new Certified Pommeliers™ following an examination held at Cider World 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany, marking the continued expansion of global cider expertise.
The newly minted Certified Pommeliers™ are: Thomas Digervold, Founder of Bergen Bobler — the International Nordic Cider & Sparkling Wine Festival in the Nordics, and Estida Aleknaviciene, Lithuanian-based cider enthusiast, maker, and orchardist.
Representing an advanced level of achievement within the ACA’s educational pathway, the Certified Pommelier™ designation recognizes elevated expertise in cider, including production, sensory evaluation, hospitality applications, and global cider knowledge.
“Welcoming each new Certified Pommelier™ into this community is a reminder of how far cider education has come, and where it’s headed next,” says Jennie Dorsey, ACA Director of Education and Program Development. “With 171 Certified Pommeliers™ representing more than 15 countries, we are seeing a truly global network of cider professionals raising the standard for education and advocacy across the industry.”
More About the Certified Cider Professional™ Program
The Certified Cider Professional™ program is designed to educate those on the front lines of cider sales, making it the most comprehensive cider appreciation program for food and beverage professionals worldwide.
The program begins with the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide™ (CCG) designation, which builds a strong foundation in cider knowledge. The Level 2 Certified Pommelier™ (CP) designation advances that learning, requiring candidates to think critically and demonstrate a deeper understanding of cider production, styles, and sensory analysis.
To ensure accessibility, the ACA developed a comprehensive textbook, first released in 2023 and updated in 2024 to reflect a more global perspective and emerging categories such as low and no-alcohol cider. Additional resources include the American Cider Association’s publishing suite, Certified Cider Professional™ YouTube Channel, a global community of Licensed Educators, robust educational programming for any level of engagement, and an active international community.
Those interested in pursuing the Certified Pommelier™ designation can find upcoming exam opportunities, study resources, and program details here: Certified Cider Professional™ Program
Contact the ACA’s Director of Education, Jennie Dorsey, for more information about global cider education and access to Certified Cider Professional™ programming near you.
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