Posts by Woodley Smith
CiderCon® 2026 Request for Speaking Proposals
Submission Deadline Extended to June 30!
Mark your calendars for an unparalleled gathering of minds and talents at CiderCon® 2026, set to transform the city of Providence, Rhode Island from February 2-5, 2026. As the world’s leading event dedicated to advancing the craft of cidermaking, CiderCon® offers an exceptional platform for networking, learning, and sharing the rich traditions and innovative techniques that define our industry.
This year, we’re casting a wide net to bring in knowledgeable, passionate, and visionary speakers from the cider industry and beyond. We’re looking for presentations that will enlighten and inspire – covering a wide array of topics from best practices and emerging trends to groundbreaking research and process improvements. Additionally, we invite speakers from outside but related industries to cider. Our industry will be strengthened with fresh perspectives.
The topics we’re particularly excited about this year include:
- Cidermaking (Production, Safety and Operations, etc.)
- Sales (Wholesale, Cider Clubs, DtC, Marketing and Branding, On-Premise, etc.)
- Better Business (Human Resources, Compliance, Equity & Inclusion etc.)
- Orcharding (Pest & Disease Management, Orchard Planning, etc.)
- Data/Trends (Cider, BevAlc, Etc.)
- Cider’s Flavor and Terroir
- Innovation
If you have insights or experiences in these areas, we want to hear from you! Please be aware that our attendees do not want presentations that are sales pitches for your company or products or services. They want information that will be useful and relevant for their businesses.
At the heart of CiderCon® is our unwavering commitment to inclusivity. We believe that diversity fuels innovation and strengthens our community. That’s why we encourage proposals from individuals of all backgrounds, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and those with disabilities.
Please submit your proposals to the CiderCon® committee by June 15, 2025 by filling out this Google form. If you’re selected as a speaker, you’ll receive a complimentary pass to CiderCon® 2026, including lunches and access to all the fantastic non-ticketed events we have planned. Decisions for speakers will be made by mid-August. We may reach out to you in the interim to get more details on your session. If you have questions, please reach out to our Speaker Coordinator Jenn Martell at jenn@ciderassociation.org.
Don’t miss this opportunity to help the cider industry continue to thrive. Together, we can make CiderCon® 2026 an event that celebrates our craft, fosters innovation, and builds a more inclusive and vibrant community. We can’t wait to see you in Providence!
Meet Your Board Member: Tom Hart
We’re pleased to introduce you to board member Tom Hart of Humboldt Cider Company, who was recently elected as Pacific Coast chair. Read on to get to know more about Tom and Humboldt Cider Company in this Q&A.
Where do you work and what is your position?
Humboldt Cider Company in Eureka, CA. I am Co-Owner/Operator. I manage our sales and distribution departments and work with our local orchard partners.
Tell us about your cidery/farm/orchard
We started in my friend’s garage in 2014 and have grown incrementally over the years. We make a wide variety of ciders from small batch single-varietal orchard based ciders to large batch fruited ciders. We help manage two local orchards and work with the California State Parks and the National Park Service on fun historic orchard restoration projects.
How did you get into cider?
My friend told me about my current business partner’s plans to start a cider company in Eureka. I reached out and started as the first employee. I realized early on that I had discovered my passion: apples. After a couple years, I bought into the company and the rest is history!
Why did you decide to run for a position on the board?
I have strong relationships with cider companies large and small throughout the Pacific Coast region. I want to be a voice for all sizes and types of cider companies within the region and help highlight all the Pacific Coast has to offer.
What are your hopes for the future of the US Cider Industry?
I want to continue to see our market share grow within the alcohol industry. I also want to help inform the public about cider’s deep history in this country and the contributions cider companies make in their local communities.
How do you describe your cider region?
The Pacific Coast region features some of the most diverse brands in the industry. We range from high-end small batch companies like Tilted Shed, Two Broads, Raging Cider and Paradise to larger well-known brands like Golden State, Ace and Two Rivers. We are fortunate to live in a region full of natural beauty and are proud to share a strong sense of community.
What’s your favorite apple to work with and why?
My favorite apple to work with is the Wickson Crab. First and foremost, I am an Albert Etter enthusiast through and through. Second, the Wickson is a very small and unassuming apple, but it packs quite the punch. It has deep historical roots to our region and makes for a wonderful cider.
What is your favorite cider/food pairing?
Don’t judge me, but I am partial to pairing Humboldt County’s Cypress Grove chèvre with a cold glass of Humboldt Cider Company’s Gravenstein.
What is your favorite nature/cider pairing?
Humboldt County is home to Six Rivers National Forest and Redwood National and State Parks. My favorite summer activity is drinking cider alongside the Smith or Trinity River while taking in all the natural beauty that surrounds me.
What would you like our members to know about you that they might not know?
Humboldt Cider Company is proud to feature artwork from Dave Van Patten. Did you know Dave recently won a Grammy? His album artwork on the Grateful Dead’s “In and Out of the Garden” box set took home the trophy for Best Recording Package in 2023.
New Member Benefit: Share Your Events on the ACA Website
Our members are doing exciting things across the country! As part of our ongoing commitment to support and promote your hard work and passion for crafting exceptional cider, we are introducing a new feature that will spotlight your cider events on our official website.
Showcase Your Events
Starting now, as a member of the American Cider Association, you will have the opportunity to feature your cider events on our website. Whether you’re hosting a tasting, a workshop, or a special seasonal celebration, this platform will provide you with greater visibility and will allow cider enthusiasts from across the nation to discover and attend your events. We’ve started with a few of our events to give you an idea of just what it will look like. Check it out here. There is also a direct link from our homepage to the Upcoming Cider Events page that will host all of your event submissions.
How It Works
We want to make this process as easy as possible for you. Here’s how you can get your events listed on the website:
- Submit Your Event Details: The first step is to fill out our Event Submission Form. (You’ll be prompted to login to your ACA account in order to access the form. Once you’ve logged in you should see a link on the left menu bar on your member dashboard to submit your event) This is your opportunity to showcase what makes your event unique and appealing. Be sure to include all the enticing details that will draw cider lovers to your event.
- Email Us Your Photo: Visuals are a powerful way to capture attention. Send us a photo that represents your event. The image should be 500×500 pixels and less than 2 MB in size. Email your photos to pickcider@ciderassociation.org. If a photo isn’t provided, we’ll use a stock image as a placeholder.
- Review and Approval: Our team will review submitted events to ensure they align with our community standards and approve them onto the website.
- Weekly Updates: Each Monday, we will update our website with the newly approved events. Be sure to submit your events in advance so they can be seen by the most people.
Why You Should Take Advantage of This Benefit
This new benefit is designed to enhance your event’s reach and impact. Our analytics show that people come to the ACA website looking for cider events. By being featured on our platform, you could potentially reach new cider enthusiasts eager to discover and participate in your events.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Communications Manager Woodley Smith at woodley@ciderassociation.org.
ACA Welcomes 18 People to the Growing Ranks of Certified Pommeliers Following CiderCon® 2025 Exam
As cider’s popularity continues to grow and an increasing number of producers and styles enter the market, more professionals and enthusiasts are deepening their expertise through certification.
The American Cider Association (ACA) is pleased to announce that 18 individuals successfully passed the recent Certified Pommelier exam held at CiderCon® 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. The following individuals join a growing community of cider experts dedicated to elevating the industry: Yakira Batres from Bauman’s on Oak kitchen crew, cidermaker Jenna Boucher from Two Blokes Cider, cidermaker Marcio Buffalo from Mountain West Hard Cider, taproom manager Dylan Ford Pitcher from Lost Generation Brewing Company, cidermaker Alex Gill from Indian Ladder Farms Cidery & Brewery, cidermaker Abram Goldman-Armstrong from Alde Sider, Megan Hereford owner and co-founder of Daring Wine & Cider Company, cidermaker Kia Hitt from Angry Orchard Cider House, general manager of Bauman’s on Oak Chris Leimena, Gabriela Muñoz who wears many hats at Keepsake Cidery, Jason Schmink owner of Oak Tree Orchards, cidermaker Eli Shanks from Western Cider, marketing director for brand partnerships Marina Sumrada from Schilling Cider, founder of Blind Bear Beverages Claire Trindle, quality assurance manager Sadie Wagnell from Schilling Cider, owner and cidermaker Christine Walter of Bauman’s Cider, and cider enthusiasts Matt Hart and Ian McPherson.
“We are so proud to welcome these new Certified Pommeliers to our vibrant community of experts elevating the appreciation and understanding of cider,” says ACA Director of Education and Program Development Jennie Dorsey. “Each new member brings with them the stories of orchards, the craftsmanship of cidermakers, and the passion of enthusiasts that makes our community thrive. We are very excited to see what the future holds and the new heights that our community can reach together.”
The ACA originally launched its Certified Cider Professional (CCP) program to equip industry leaders with the expertise to navigate cider’s rich diversity with confidence. Increasingly the program is gaining popularity with food and beverage professionals wanting to set themselves apart from their peers with exceptional skills, deep knowledge, and a commitment to hospitality.
“We know that top dining experiences are built on knowledgeable, confident service, and cider deserves to be part of that conversation,” says ACA CEO Monica Cohen. “Our Certified Cider Professional program ensures that food and beverage professionals have the expertise to showcase cider’s full potential. With cider pairings, we know the dining experience for guests are elevated.”
More about the Certified Cider Professional Program and Upcoming Opportunities
The CCP program is designed to educate those on the front-line of cider sales, making it the world’s most comprehensive and in-depth cider appreciation program for food and beverage professionals worldwide.
The CCP program begins with a Level 1 Certified Cider Guide (CCG) designation to help industry professionals develop a fundamental understanding of cider. The Level 2 Certified Pommelier (CP) designation takes it a step further by encouraging cider professionals to think critically and showcase a higher level of understanding of the elements of cider. The rigorous testing process consists of four types of questions, including short answer, fill in the blank, essay, and blind sensory–which is based on tasting.
The ACA is dedicated to ensuring that all information tested on the exam is made accessible to anyone who desires to learn. To that end, the ACA released a textbook in March of 2023 to help candidates prepare to take the exam with just one comprehensive resource. The second edition of the textbook was released in March of 2024 to present a more global view of the cider industry as well as including new sections covering important emerging sectors such as low and no-alcohol products.The textbook is available for purchase through Kindle Direct Publishing. Additionally, the ACA offers sensory analysis practice webinars and a Facebook study group continuously updated with resources for exam candidates. Interested candidates can find links to all Certified Pommelier resources on the ACA website.
For those interested in attaining their Certified Pommelier designation, there are several upcoming exams to choose from:
- April 26: Frankfurt, Germany at CiderWorld
- May 14: Grand Rapids, Michigan at GLINTCAP
- May 21: Los Angeles, California at Benny Boy Brewing
- October 6: Charlottesville, Virginia at Potter’s Craft Cider
Contact the ACA’s Director of Education and Program Development Jennie Dorsey if you have questions about the Certified Cider Professional program or are interested in taking either the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide or Level 2 Certified Pommelier exams. You can also learn more at https://ciderassociation.org/certification.
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Yakira Batres
Jenna Boucher
Marcio Buffolo
Dylan Ford Pitcher
Alex Gill
Abram Goldman-Armstrong
Megan Hereford
Kia Hitt
Chris Leimena
Gabriela Muñoz
Jason Schmink
Eli Shanks
Marina Sumrada
Claire Trindle
Sadie Wagnell
Christine Walter
Matt Hart
Member Highlight: Daring Wine & Cider Company
Cidery Name
Where are you located and when did you start?
We are located in Stuart, Virginia in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, we got our farm winery license in July of 2022.
Describe your cidery in three words.
Brave. Bold. Daring.
What inspired you to start making cider?
Our (Jocelyn and Megan) friendship grew from working together in the wine industry in Virginia (over 20 years ago!), and when Jocelyn started working with Diane Flynt at Foggy Ridge Cider she was hooked and pulled me into that world as well. It has been a long-time dream of ours to create our own place and make the ciders we love to drink and want to share with the world.
Describe your cider making style.
Small lot, carefully crafted, quaffable, crushable dry ciders. We make our ciders like we make our wine and they are clean and crisp celebrations of all the things that cider apples grown in Virginia can be. We are also focusing on harvesting locally sourced fruit and botanicals so we can expand our range of cider offerings.
What is your favorite cider that you make?
Crab Apple Blend – This dry cider made from 75% Hewes Crab and 25% Ruby Red Crab is a constant crowd pleaser and always the one we reach for when we are craving cider.
Where can cider enthusiasts find your products?
On our website (we ship!), at pop-ups, wine bars and restaurants around Virginia, or by visiting us at the farm.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy cider (food pairing, occasion, etc.)?
With friends over a great meal.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone new to making cider or wanting to start a cidery?
Make the connections in the industry with people who can mentor you and guide you on your journey. We wouldn’t be where we were if it weren’t for the great people who have helped and encouraged us along the way.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of cidermaking?
Cidermaker Jocelyn enjoys working in her vegetable garden, tending to her ever-growing planting of native flowers and tending to the animals on her farm all with the help of her family. You can find Megan out enjoying all the beautiful places in the state to hike and walk with her dogs.
Member Highlight: Draper Girls Cider Co.
Cidery Name
Where are you located and when did you start?
Mount Hood, Oregon. We started in 2017 doing hard cider. The farm was established in 1962
Describe your cidery in three words:
Small Batch Boutique Cider
What inspired you to start making cider?
My three daughters Rachel, Crystal and Stefanie kept pushing me to create unique, small batch cider.
Describe your cider making style:
Our style is to focus on fruit forward flavors including semi-dry to semi-sweet.
What is your favorite cider that you make?
Tart cherry for sure!
Where can cider enthusiasts find your products?
It is available at our Country Store in Mount Hood and we do take some flavors to the Portland State University Farmers Market on Saturdays.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy cider (food pairing, occasion, etc.)?
On a hot summer day with crushed ice paired with locally made pizza.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone new to making cider or wanting to start a cidery?
You don’t have to go big to be successful. Be unique and stay true to who you are.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of cidermaking?
Traveling to the coast in the winter months or enjoying the Portland Trailblazers. We are definitely huge sports fanatics.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
We appreciate all of the support from our cider community, customers and loyal followers. Your support and love for cider over the years has made us who we are. We enjoy giving people from all over the world a unique cider experience.
Member Highlight: Bivouac Ciderworks
Cidery Name
Where are you located and when did you start?
Located in San Diego, CA and started operations in 2018.
Describe your cidery in three words:
Premium, women-powered, adventurous
What inspired you to start making cider?
It’s a long story.
Describe your cider making style:
Inspired by tradition, driven by innovation.
What is your favorite cider that you make?
San Diego Jam
Where can cider enthusiasts find your products?
Throughout Southern California and Arizona at Total Wine, Whole Foods, Vons, Sprouts, Lazy Acres, Disneyland, and more!
What’s your favorite way to enjoy cider (food pairing, occasion, etc.)?
On the top of a mountain, or paired with a fine meal.
What’s one piece of advice you would give to someone new to making cider or wanting to start a cidery?
Don’t get into this business for the money.
What are your hobbies or interests outside of cidermaking?
Hiking, climbing, camping, paddle boarding, traveling & drinking cider while doing all of those things!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Cider is as approachable as beer, yet as nuanced as wine, and Bivouac Ciderworks looks forward to growing with this awesome community as cider takes over the world!
May 21: Certified Pommelier Exam at Benny Boy Brewing
TAKE THE CERTIFIED POMMELIER EXAM IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA ON MAY 21!
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 Benny Boy Brewing in Los Angeles, California. The exam will take place Wednesday, May 21st, 2025. The exam will begin promptly at 9 AM.
*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 are available.)
There’s also 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 Cider Education Operations Manager 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 the Cider Education Operations Manager, 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.
May 20: Cider & Charcuterie at Benny Boy Brewing
Cider & Charcuterie Pairing Workshop: A Flavor Adventure!
Join us for a mouthwatering journey into the art of cider and charcuterie pairing on May 20 at Benny Boy Brewing from 4:00 – 6:00 PM! Whether you’re a cider enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a fun night out, this hands-on workshop will teach you how to match crisp, refreshing ciders with the perfect selection of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments.
What to Expect:
- Guided tastings of expertly curated ciders
- A delicious spread of artisanal charcuterie & cheeses
- Insider tips on pairing flavors for the ultimate tasting experience
- A relaxed, social atmosphere with plenty of chances to sip, snack, and learn!
By the end of the evening, you’ll have the knowledge (and confidence!) to craft perfect pairings at home and impress your friends at your next gathering. Spots are limited—reserve yours now!
Price: $50.00
CiderCon® 2025 Fact Sheet
CiderCon® 2025 took place from February 4 – 7 in Chicago, Illinois. This annual event, organized by the American Cider Association, serves as a leading conference for cider industry professionals from around the world. The conference, now in it’s 15th year, featured a rich program of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and an extensive trade show. Here is a brief overview of the key happenings at this year’s CiderCon®:
Key Highlights
- Venue: The event was hosted at Chicago Hilton on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago.
- Attendance: Around 850 cider industry professionals from around the globe attended including:
- Attendees from 40 states with California, Washington, New York, Michigan & Illinois having the highest representation.
- Attendees from 13 countries, including Austria, Canada, Denmark, France, Lithuania, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and a 7 person delegation from Chile, our Guest Cidermaking Country of Honor.
- Workshops and Sessions:
- Close to 40 educational sessions with 88 speakers covered topics such as cider production techniques, marketing strategies, sustainability practices, and cider business management.
- The Cider Institute of North America helped to develop the Crafting Amazing Cider track sessions once again.
- Ten tasting sessions highlighting everything from quince ciders to brewer’s yeast in cider to keeving to cider cocktails.
- Scholarships:
- The ACA hosted 5 recipients for their Cider is For Everyone Scholarship at CiderCon® 2025. This scholarship is designed to bring individuals from historically marginalized populations within the beverage industry to CiderCon® to increase the accessibility of cider education and catalyze the careers and ownership pathways of these burgeoning cider professionals.
- Cider Share:
- Cider Share is the beloved opening reception of CiderCon®. This year Cider Share took place on February 5 and featured more than 60 cideries from around the country and the world pouring their ciders for CiderCon® attendees.
- Experiences:
- Five experiences were held on February 4 including a tour of the Field Museum, a pizza-making course, a cider cocktail course, a barrel to glass tour, and a cider-pairing dinner highlighting cidermakers from diverse backgrounds.
- Keynote Speakers:
- The ACA welcomed 3 keynote speakers on the morning of February 6. Scott Ramsey, Executive Director of the New York Cider Association, facilitated a “fireside chat” with New York Liquor Commissioner Lily Fan. They discussed how a liquor authority can work to support a sustainable craft cider industry and celebrate the recent historic win of a state bill that expanded market access for cidermakers in New York. Debbie Morrison of Yellow Belly Cidery and Sapsucker Farms in Minnesota shared how she and her husband Jim approach sustainability at their operations from multiple perspectives.
- Certified Pommelier
- The ACA once again offered its Certified Pommelier exam at CiderCon® 2025. The Certified Pommelier is an advanced second-level designation of the ACA’s Certified Cider Professional program geared toward beverage and hospitality industry professionals. Close to 30 people sat for the challenging test that included a blind sensory evaluation section. The new cohort of Certified Pommeliers will be announced in 6 weeks.
- Networking:
- There were numerous networking opportunities at CiderCon® 2025, including a Newcomer Networking session, a LGBTQIA+ Cider Professional meetup, a Cider Institute of North America meetup, a Guild Leader’s meeting, and an Orcharding Meetup where attendees exchanged apple tree scion wood.
- Trade Show:
- Over 80 exhibitors displayed the latest equipment, products, and services tailored for the cider industry at the Trade Show sponsored by FruitSmart™.
- Vendors came from around the country and the world and featured several new vendors as well as many who have returned year after year to support the cider industry.
- Chicago Cider Week
- CiderCon® 2024 once again coincided with Chicago Cider Week which featured cider-focused events across the city.
CiderCon® 2026 will be held in Providence, Rhode Island from February 3-6, 2026.
CiderCon® was created to offer the commercial hard cider industry an outlet to meet, share ideas, collaborate, and affect positive changes in cidermaking, apple and pear production, the cider market, and cider regulations. CiderCon® is organized by the American Cider Association whose mission is to grow a diverse and successful US. cider industry by providing valuable information, resources, and services to our members and by advocating on their behalf.