Posts by Woodley Smith
Expanding Global Cider Education: ACA Partners with The Drinks Trust and Heineken to make the Certified Cider Guide™ Course More Accessible in the UK
The American Cider Association (ACA) is thrilled to announce an exciting new partnership with The Drinks Trust and Heineken to make the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide™ (CCG) qualification more accessible to drinks professionals across the United Kingdom.
This collaboration marks an important step toward expanding access to professional cider education and supporting the next generation of cider advocates worldwide.
Bringing Accessible Cider Education to the UK
The Certified Cider Guide™ is the ACA’s internationally recognized Level 1 certification, designed to give participants a foundational understanding of cider production, styles, tasting, and service. The course has been integrated into The Drinks Trust’s DEVELOP training platform, a program that offers fully funded courses to individuals working or seeking work in the drinks and hospitality industries.
For eligible learners in the UK, this means the course is now available at no cost through the DEVELOP bursary program.
“Accessibility in education is essential for a thriving industry,” says Jennie Dorsey, Director of Education & Program Development for the American Cider Association. “Partnering with The Drinks Trust means more professionals can discover cider’s incredible diversity, expand their expertise, and join a growing international network of cider advocates.”
Flexible Learning for Busy Professionals
Delivered completely online and at your own pace, the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide™ course is designed to fit around real-world work schedules. Participants receive a comprehensive digital study guide, engaging on-demand video lessons, and access to the official ACA certification exam—all from the comfort of home.
The qualification helps participants:
- Build confidence in cider tasting and service
- Understand cider production methods, apple varieties, and fermentation styles
- Strengthen product knowledge and customer engagement skills
- Earn an internationally recognized certification that supports career growth across the drinks trade
A Shared Vision for Growth and Inclusion
As one of the world’s most historic cider regions, the UK has a deep connection to cider culture and craft. This partnership aims to elevate that heritage while ensuring access to professional education is open to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance.
The program is made possible through the generous support of Heineken, whose investment in the DEVELOP platform helps remove financial barriers to training and promote a more inclusive industry.
Join the Global Cider Learning Community
Through this collaboration, the ACA continues to expand the reach of the Certified Cider Professional™ program, which now serves learners in multiple countries and across all sectors of the beverage trade.
Interested in learning more or applying for the UK program?
👉 Visit The Drinks Trust’s course page to get started.
Together with The Drinks Trust and Heineken, we’re working to make cider education more accessible, more inclusive, and more inspiring, one sip at a time.
Cider Shows Up at Great American Beer Festival
For the second consecutive year, cider took the stage alongside beer at the 2025 Great American Beer Festival® (GABF) competition…and, once again, made a big impression. As the beverage world continues to evolve, cider is increasingly being recognized as a dynamic, creative and important contributor to the beverage alcohol category.
Included in the more than 8,000 entries that were judged, the Brewers Association doled out 18 awards to the 178 cider entries and named Don & Sharon Gowan of Gowan’s Heirloom Cider in Philo, CA the Cider Maker of the Year.
Category 201: Tannic Cider – 21 Entries
- Gold: 1876 Heirloom, Gowan’s Heirloom Cider, Philo, CA
- Silver: Classic Dry, Gowan’s Heirloom Cider, Philo, CA
- Bronze: Kingston Black, Snow Capped Cider, Austin, CO
Category 202: No/Low-Tannin Cider – 36 Entries
- Gold: 14th Anniversary, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis, OR
- Silver: Original Gold, Portland Cider Co., Clackamas, OR
- Bronze: Local Legend, Schilling Cider, Auburn, WA
Category 203: Fruited Cider – 53 Entries
- Gold: Honey Citron, Gowan’s Heirloom Cider, Philo, CA
- Silver: Piper’s Pineapple, Gatlinburg Brewing Co., Sevierville, TN
- Bronze: Huckleberry Cosmic Crisp, 2 Towns Ciderhouse, Corvallis, OR
Category 204: Botanical or Spiced Cider – 25 Entries
- Gold: Spiced Apple, Gowan’s Heirloom Cider, Philo, CA
- Silver: Plum & Lemongrass, Snow Capped Cider, Austin, CO
- Bronze: Cranberry Spice, Six Byrd Cider, Tempe, AZ
Category 205: Experimental, Barrel-Aged or Specialty Cider – 27 Entries
- Gold: Calville Blanc d’Hiver Ice Cider, Haykin Family Cider, Aurora, CO
- Silver: Apollo Palmer, Papa Moon Ciders, Scottsbluff, NE
- Bronze: Santiam Cherry Apples in Garryana Oak, Haykin Family Cider, Aurora, CO
Category 206: Single Varietal Cider – 16 Entries
- Gold: Mountain Rose, Haykin Family Cider, Aurora, CO
- Silver: Gravenstien, Snow Capped Cider, Austin, CO
- Bronze: Niedzwetzkyana, Haykin Family Cider, Aurora, CO
Cider Maker of the Year: Gowan’s Heirloom Cider, Philo, CA
C-Store Cider Sales Thrive This Year
Each month consumer insights platform Sightlines will share one quick hit you can use to make confident decisions. Also, ACA members get 50% off a Sightlines subscription. Find the discount code in the Resource Hub.
While alcohol has generally been in the red in most retail channels this year, cider sales in convenience stores offer a rare bright spot. Both dollar sales (+4.8%) and volume (+3.4%) are well above the negative trend lines for craft, seltzers, domestics, and even imports in Circana-tracked c-store data.
What explains the boom? Cider has finally arrived at the imperial party. In January, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) approved new standards of fill for higher-ABV cider that included 16 oz. and 19.2 oz cans. Prior to that update, those can sizes were only an option for cider under 7% ABV, excluding higher-strength cider from the single-serve can sizes that have proven so successful for imperial IPAs and high-gravity FMBs. At the time of the announcement, Jeff Parrish, co-owner of Oregon’s Portland Cider Company, called the move “a game changer,” and year-to-date sales confirm it.
But imperial cider in 19.2 oz. cans isn’t the only story line. Convenience stores’ craft beer SKU rationalization over the past year has also opened up space for higher-margin cider. And finally, cider enjoys crossover appeal with the popular RTD cocktail category—yet it may be available in c-stores where distilled spirits aren’t legally allowed. All of this presents a long runway for cider, which has yet to post numbers for October (National Cider Month), November (Thanksgiving), and December (Christmas and New Year’s Eve). We’d expect it to take an even bigger bite of the c-store apple in those final 2025 months.
Introducing the Certified Cider Guide™ Digital Flashcards
The American Cider Association is excited to share a brand-new study tool for anyone preparing for the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide™ exam! The Certified Cider Guide™ Digital Flashcards are now available for free, offering an easy and engaging way to test your knowledge wherever you are. Designed to help you master key terms, cider styles, and production concepts, these cards are the perfect resource for students, professionals, and cider enthusiasts alike.
Prefer something you can hold in your hands? A physical deck of the Certified Cider Guide™ Flashcards will be available for purchase at CiderCon® 2026, so you can keep learning and sharing your cider knowledge offline too.
Get started today, explore the digital deck, and take the next step in your cider education journey.
*Note: By downloading these flashcards, you agree to comply with all copyright laws protecting the Certified Cider Professional™ program materials. Unauthorized sharing, reproduction, or distribution is strictly prohibited.
American Cider Association Welcomes New Canadian Licensed Educator
The American Cider Association (ACA) is proud to announce that Jenna Boucher has joined its growing network of Licensed Educators, bringing her award-winning expertise and Canadian perspective to the Certified Cider Professional™ (CCP) program.
Jenna is an accomplished cidermaker, judge, and educator with deep roots in Canada’s diverse cider scene. A Certified Pommelier™ and GLINTCAP award-winner, Jenna has honed her craft in cideries from coast to coast, including orchard-based, urban, and coastal operations. Known for her creativity and passion, she shares her love for cider and craft beverages through her Instagram, @bouche_bag, where she highlights both her own creations and the wider cider community.
A true cider nerd at heart, Jenna can be found experimenting with barrel aging, developing innovative blends, and leading taproom tastings in her signature overalls. Beyond production, she serves as a judge at respected competitions including GLINTCAP and the Canadian Beer Cup, and she contributes her expertise through committee work with both the ACA and the Canadian Cider Association (CCA).
“Jenna brings both knowledge and approachability to cider education,” said Jennie Dorsey, Director of Education and Program Development of the American Cider Association. “Her Canadian perspective and hands-on experience will be a huge asset as we continue expanding access to cider education.”
As a Licensed Educator, Jenna will lead Certified Cider Guide™ workshops and educational events designed to make cider learning inclusive, approachable, and full of flavor. Her role supports the ACA’s mission to advance the understanding and appreciation of cider among hospitality professionals, retailers, and consumers.
“I’m thrilled to represent Canada in this next step of cider education,” said Jenna. “Cider is such a vibrant, diverse beverage, and I’m excited to help people feel connected to it, whether they’re pouring it behind the bar, learning about food pairings, or simply enjoying it on a hike with a view.”
The ACA is excited to welcome Jenna to its Licensed Educator team and looks forward to supporting her work in building cider knowledge across Canada and beyond.
About the American Cider Association
The American Cider Association (ACA) is a non-profit trade organization that supports cider producers and advocates for the cider industry in the United States and internationally. Through education, legislation, and community-building, the ACA works to grow a diverse, vibrant, and thriving cider category.
The 2025 Government Shutdown: What it Means for You
Because Congress has not yet passed a continuing resolution to fund the government, a federal shutdown is now in effect beginning October 1, 2025. For cideries, the most immediate impact comes from the significant reduction of 87% of staff at the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). The TTB will continue only essential functions. These include processing tax returns with payments, handling urgent legal matters, securing federal property, managing essential payroll and accounting, and continuing criminal enforcement. Most other services—such as label approvals, formula reviews, and permitting—are paused until funding is restored. In addition, the Small Business Administration (SBA) is also functioning at 23% of its workforce, focusing on existing loans and Emergency Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs).
Here’s what you need to know from the TTB:
- Label approvals are on hold. TTB will not review new Certificates of Label Approval (COLAs) during the shutdown. You can still submit applications, but they won’t be processed until funding resumes. Expect delays once staff return and begin working through the backlog.
- Formulas and permits are paused. If you need approval for a new formula, an ownership change, or a new location, those requests will sit in the queue as well. This can be especially disruptive for small and mid-sized cideries—the majority of U.S. producers—that often run on tight timelines and seasonal releases.
- Taxes and reports are still due. Even though most TTB staff are furloughed, cideries are still required to file operational reports and pay federal excise taxes on time. There may not be anyone available to answer questions until the government reopens, so it’s best to plan ahead.
- Expect a backlog. Once the shutdown ends, TTB will face a surge of pending applications. This could stretch timelines for weeks or months, especially for labels and formulas.
What you can do:
- Keep filing everything on time, even during the shutdown.
- Submit any pending labels or formulas now, so they’re in the system.
- Build extra time into your release schedules in case of delays.
- Communicate with distributors and partners about possible timing impacts.
Here’s what you need to know from the SBA:
- The SBA has halted processing new 7(a) and 504 loans, which are crucial for financing equipment, expansion, and working capital. This suspension affects all new loan applications, even those from lenders with delegated authority.
- While new loan processing is paused, the SBA continues to service existing loans. However, borrowers should expect longer processing times and slower assistance due to reduced staffing.
What you can do:
- Cideries relying on SBA loans for expansion, equipment upgrades, or working capital may face delays in accessing necessary funds
ACA will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions—we’re here to help you navigate these disruptions. Contact ACA Government Affairs Manager Jenn Martell with questions.
Cider Industry’s Premiere Event Coming to Providence, Rhode Island February 2026
For Immediate Release
American Cider Association
Cider Industry’s Premiere Event Coming to Providence, Rhode Island February 2026
CiderCon® 2026 is coming to Providence, Rhode Island, bringing together cidermakers, industry leaders, and innovators from around the globe to learn, connect, and celebrate the craft of cider.
This year’s theme, “Crafting Cider’s Future Together,” celebrates the collaboration and creativity driving the industry forward. While other beverage alcohol categories have suffered, cider – especially regional craft ciders – has seen an increase in sales this year.
Open to cider suppliers, makers and enthusiasts, the event features interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking, while also offering attendees the opportunity to attend a variety of experiences from the fan-favorite Cider Share to regionally inspired cider tours, tastings and a large trade show.
Highlights of CiderCon® 2026
- Expanded General Session: An expanded general session will feature speakers from the cider industry and beyond and will share insights on market trends, sustainability, and innovation, paving the way for the future of cider.
- Sessions: A variety of sessions will cover topics such as cidermaking techniques and best practices, marketing strategies, cider’s terroir, business and compliance considerations, and the history and future of cider apples. The ACA is pleased to once again partner with the Cider Institute to develop the cider production sessions.
- Trade Show & Artisan Marketplace: Discover the latest products and services available to the cider industry in the Trade Show, sponsored by FruitSmart, showcasing innovations in equipment, packaging, and more. In addition, the inaugural Artisan Marketplace will feature makers eager to share their crafts with attendees.
- Networking Opportunities: There will be a plethora of networking events available, allowing attendees to connect with fellow professionals from every corner of the cider world, fostering relationships that can lead to future collaborations.
Exploring the Region
Four tours are scheduled to take place Monday, February 2, offering attendees the opportunity to get to know the region better. There will be a Connecticut cidery tour, a Rhode Island cidery tour, a tour of the Johnson & Wales University Culinary Museum, and a Prohibition in Providence drinking tour.
Registration Information
Registration for CiderCon® 2026 is now open. Early bird rates are available until November 3, 2025. Early bird rates are $479 for members and $875 for non-members. Rates will increase to $549 for members and $945 for non-members on November 3, 2025.
For more information, including the full schedule, speakers and registration details, please visit www.ciderassociation.org/cidercon2026.
About the American Cider Association:
The American Cider Association is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to supporting cidermakers and promoting the cider industry. Through education, advocacy, and community building, the ACA works to enhance the cider experience and ensure a vibrant future for all cider professionals.
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Haritz Rodriguez Joins the Certified Cider Professional™ Program as a Licensed Educator in Spain, Portugal, and Mexico.
The American Cider Association (ACA) is proud to announce that Haritz Rodriguez, known across the cider world as @Ciderzale, has been appointed as the next Licensed Educator for the Certified Cider Professional™ (CCP) Program.
Haritz brings more than a decade of experience in cider education, culture, and promotion to this role. An independent journalist and marketing consultant specializing in the agrifood sector, Haritz has spent the last ten years working with cider producers, organizations, and festivals around the world to promote cider, cider tourism, and cider culture.
A Certified Pommelier™ with the American Cider Association and a member of the official tasting panel for the PDO Euskal Sagardoa, Haritz is a recognized authority on Basque sagardoa and international ciders. He has co-organized major cider events such as Sidrama Ponte de Lima (Portugal) and Sagardo Forum (Basque Country) and collaborated on notable competitions and festivals including the Nordic International Cider Awards, Cider World Frankfurt, and the World Cider Awards.
Haritz also advises cider houses in the Basque Country, the USA, and the UK, offers educational talks and tastings, and serves as a judge at numerous competitions worldwide. In 2018, he founded Ciderlands, an international cider tourism and culture network, expanding his influence as a connector and advocate for the global cider community.
In addition to his work on the ground, Haritz is an accomplished cider content creator. Under his personal brand Ciderzale, he shares striking photography, videos, and stories about cider with a global audience. His writing and photography have appeared in leading cider publications including Malus Magazine, Graftwood, and Full Juice. He has also contributed to travel and educational experiences for cider makers, journalists, and writers alike.
As part of his new role with the ACA’s Certified Cider Professional™ Program, Haritz will bring his extensive knowledge and international perspective to cider professionals and enthusiasts. The CCP Program is the world’s leading cider education and certification system, designed to elevate cider knowledge, improve consumer experience, and support the growth of the cider industry worldwide.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Haritz as a Licensed Educator,” says Jennie Dorsey, Director of Education and Program Development. “His expertise, energy, and passion for cider will help us strengthen our educational offerings worldwide.”
Click here to learn more about the Certified Cider Professional™ Program.
ACA Partners with Brock University to Offer Certified Cider Guide™ Workshop in Canada
The American Cider Association (ACA) is thrilled to announce a new collaboration with the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) at Brock University. Together, we are bringing our Level 1 Certified Cider Guide™ (CCG) training to Canada with a one-day, in-person workshop designed to prepare participants to earn their first level of cider certification.
Our Certified Cider Professional™ Program is the global gold standard in cider education. This new partnership with Brock University expands access to high-quality cider training for beverage professionals, educators, and enthusiasts throughout Canada.
During this immersive workshop, participants will explore cider history, production methods, styles, sensory evaluation, and food pairing. Attendees will leave with the knowledge and confidence to successfully complete the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide™ exam.
Workshop Highlights:
- A full-day of expert-led training aligned with ACA standards
- In-depth tasting, evaluation, and style analysis
- Access to the online certification exam
- Networking with peers in the beverage, hospitality, and education sectors
- The opportunity to earn internationally recognized cider credentials
This is a landmark moment for cider education in Canada, and we’re proud to partner with CCOVI at Brock University to make it happen. Registration details and the full schedule are available through Brock University.
February 3: Certified Pommelier Exam at CiderCon® 2026
TAKE THE CERTIFIED POMMELIER EXAM AT CIDERCON® 2026 IN PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND ON TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3RD!
Are you ready to take the next step in your professional development in the cider industry?
If you have already passed the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide exam and are looking for that next challenge? Now is your chance!
The American Cider Association is pleased to announce a Certified Pommelier Exam will be held at CiderCon® 2026 in Providence, RI . The exam will take place Tuesday, February 3, 2026. The exam will begin promptly at 8:30 AM. *Registration to CiderCon® is not required, but highly encouraged.
*Level 1 Certified Cider Guide certification is a prerequisite for taking the Certified Pommelier Exam. (Haven’t taken your Level 1 Certified Cider Guide Exam? Buy the bundle here! ACA Member discounts for Level 1 are available in the Resource Hub.)
There’s a discount code available for ACA members for the Certified Pommelier Exam. You can find that code in our Resource Hub.
WHAT IS THE CERTIFIED POMMELIER EXAM?
The American Cider Association’s mission is to grow a diverse and successful cider industry by providing valuable information, resources and services to our members and by advocating on their behalf. One way to fulfill this mission is through the Certified Cider Professional Program, a program aimed at educating the front-line of cider hospitality (distributors, retailers, bartenders and more!) while also welcoming journalists and serious cider enthusiasts.
The exam for the introductory level certification, Certified Cider Guide (CCG), is an online test that can be taken at any time. The exam for the more advanced second level of certification, Certified Pommelier, is only available in person. The exam consists of two parts, a written theory exam comprising short answer and essay questions and a blind sensory evaluation of a number of ciders. Passing the introductory level exam is a mandatory prerequisite to sitting for the Level 2 Certified Pommelier exam.
Certified Pommeliers must have a fundamental understanding of all topics covered at the introductory level, but must also be able to think critically and demonstrate a deeper understanding of cider and the cider industry.
The topics covered in the exam are:
- Apples, the Orchard & History
- Cider Making
- Flavor & Evaluation
- Cider Families
- Keeping & Serving
- Food & Cider
- Social Responsibility
The exam is meant to be challenging. The only information necessary for successfully passing the theory section of the exam is contained in the Certified Pommelier Study Guide available on Amazon. To study for the evaluation section of the exam, candidates should consider attending one of the sensory analysis videos available through the ACA’s website or attend one of the regularly scheduled webinars. Access to pre-recorded webinars and registration for upcoming live webinars is available directly through our website.
WHY BECOME A CERTIFIED POMMELIER?
Cider is a beautifully nuanced beverage that is less well understood by most consumers. Having the knowledge and skills required to become a Certified Pommelier will equip you to better serve customers, enhance your standing in the beverage community, and give you a unique and valuable professional qualification. Being recognized as a Certified Pommelier will put you in the vanguard of advanced cider specialists in this ever growing category.
HOW MUCH DOES THE TEST COST?
The registration fee for the exam is $350. Current members of the ACA can register at a discounted price of $250 by using the discount code that can be found here. If a candidate sits for the exam but does not pass either section, or only passes one of the two sections, theory or sensory evaluation, they can resit for the section of the exam that they did not pass at a future date. The fee for retaking the exam is $175 for non-members and $125 for current members of the ACA.
Read Terms & Conditions before registering.
WHAT MATERIALS ARE AVAILABLE TO STUDY FOR THE EXAM?
- The Certified Pommelier Study Guide is available directly through Amazon. It is also available at all of Amazon’s international sites.This is the official study guide for the second level of the American Cider Association’s professional certification program. It contains all of the information needed to study for and pass the examination. No other reference materials are required.
- There is also a dedicated Facebook Group (that is open for all to join) with prep materials and in-depth peer conversations that many candidates have found useful.
- Sensory evaluation is an important part of being a Certified Pommelier which is why we test your ability to accurately analyze the structural components, aromas, and flavors of a variety of ciders. In order to aid in the development of your sensory evaluation skills and understand the approach to testing them, we have several pre-recorded videos available for purchase. In addition, we host several live sensory analysis webinars each year. You can access the videos and look for scheduled webinars here.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
(Download the Frequently Asked Questions document.)
- When will we receive our graded exams? Exams are not returned to candidates, however you will be notified as to whether or not you have passed about 6 weeks from the exam date. If you did not pass a section of the exam, you may request a breakdown of your points by general topic to help you identify areas in which you could improve your score should you wish to retake the exam.
- What is the grade needed for passing? 60% of the possible points for sensory evaluation and 70% for theory
- Is there a tasting section on the test? Yes. You will be asked to evaluate six ciders in two flights, one flight that assesses your ability to distinguish between key structural elements and a second where you are asked to complete a full evaluation of three ciders using the Structured Sensory Analysis format. The possible aromas and flavors document will be supplied for use during the exam.
- How long does the test take? You are given 2 hours to complete the theory section of the exam and 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete the sensory evaluation section. There is a 15 minute break in between sections.
- Is it ok if the name on my ticket or registration doesn’t match the person who attends? Registrations are not transferable, so the name on the I.D. presented when checking in for the exam must match the name on the registration.
- What happens if I cannot attend my registered exam? Please see Exam Rescheduling, Timelines and Fees in the Terms and Conditions Document for full details. If you do need to cancel your registration, exam registration fees can be refunded up to 14 days before the exam. Please note that a $25 administration fee applies to any cancellation.
- When can I register for the exam? Exam registration is open until 14 days before the posted exam date.
- How can I contact the organizer with any questions? Please contact Director of Education Jennie Dorsey at jennie@ciderassociation.org.
- What can I bring into the event? Bringing a personal water bottle is recommended for both sections of the exam. Cell phones, smart watches, computers, books or papers, and any and all other personal items must be left at a designated storage area in the exam room. Pencils will be provided, and spare paper will be available on request. Spit cups, and water will be provided during the evaluation exam. We encourage you to bring your own water bottle for the theory exam. Please contact Director of Education Jennie Dorsey at jennie@ciderassociation.org prior to registering for the exam if you wish to request special accommodations.
- Is the Certified Pommelier Exam available in my area? Certified Pommelier exams are held periodically throughout the year and in a variety of locations. Please check our current exam schedule to find an exam suitable for you.
- How many Certified Pommeliers are there currently? You can find the current number of Certified Pommelers here.
- Do I need to pass the Certified Cider Guide exam to take the Certified Pommelier exam? Yes. Passing the introductory exam to become a Certified Cider Guide is a prerequisite. If you have not yet taken this exam, you can purchase a package which includes an instructional video, study guide, and access to an online exam HERE.
- Are there ID or minimum age requirements to sit for the event? YES. You must be of legal drinking age in the country where you sit for the exam, and when checking in at the exam you must provide a photo ID that will both verify your age and identity.