CiderCon
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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February 2-5: CiderCon® 2026

Member Registration Information
- Conference Registration – $479 per person (September 30th – November 3rd)
- Late Registration – $549 per person (November 4th – February 3rd, 2026, or until conference space is full)
- On-site Registration – $695 per person, as space allows
- Are you a student or academic, or registering more than ten people from your company? Contact info@ciderassociation.org for discount details
Non-Member Registration Information – save money by joining the American Cider Association before registering!
- Conference Registration – $875 per person (September 30th – November 3rd)
- Late Registration – $945 per person (November 4th – February 3rd, 2026, or until conference space is full)
- On-site Registration – $1095 per person, as space allows
Included with your Registration
- Full access to all CiderCon® programming, from the expanded opening general session to the wide range of educational tracks packed with insights and information from industry experts and peers
- Full access to the Trade Show presented by FruitSmart
- Tuesday long sessions including TTB Bootcamp, Newcomers Networking Event and LQBTQIA+ Social
- Lunch on Wednesday and Thursday
- Coffee in the Trade Show presented by Amoretti
- Wednesday Happy Hour in the Trade Show
- Scion Exchange/Orchard Networking Session
- Free Conference App presented by Juicing Systems – download EventMobi: Event code: JuicingSystems26
- A wide selection of educational workshops covering cider production, business practices, and insights from industry experts and fellow cider professionals.
Optional Add-Ons
TOURS – Monday, February 2nd
Connecticut Cidery Tour – $150 per person 8:30am – 6:15pm Spend the day exploring the rich cider traditions of Connecticut on this exclusive CiderCon tour. You’ll visit four standout cideries, meet the makers, and taste the diverse styles shaping the state’s cider scene.
Rhode Island Cidery Tour – $127 per person 9am – 4pm Ease into CiderCon with a day trip through Rhode Island’s cider country. This tour balances cozy tastings, farm-fresh flavors, and conversations with the makers who bring Rhode Island apples to life in the glass.
Prohibition in Providence: A Drinking History Tour – $79 per person 1:30pm -3:30pmThis downtown cider and spirits tour brings guests back to prohibition in Rhode Island, which was a bootlegger’s paradise! Includes three restaurants cider & spirit tastings with food provided. Walking tour – dress appropriately.
Culinary Arts Museum Tour & Demonstration – $20 per person 2pm – 4pm Join us for a behind-the scenes experience at Johnson & Wales University’s Culinary Arts Museum, a world class facility celebrating the history, craft, and future of food and beverage. This free tour is a change to explore an incredible resource in Providence and see culinary education in action. This tour includes transportation to the venue, tour, and demonstration. Attendees will be responsible for return transportation.
Tuesday Workshops:
Understanding & Unlocking the Chemistry of Cider Aroma $90 8:30am – 12pm Unlock the hidden language of cider aroma in this interactive sensory workshop. Using a base cider spiked with key aroma compounds, participants will explore how different chemical families shape a cider’s character—from bright top notes of fruit, floral, and perfume, to complex layers of spice, smoke, and earthy tones. Designed for both newcomers and seasoned cider professionals, this workshop blends hands-on tasting with practical insights. You’ll sharpen your ability to identify and describe sensory attributes, link aromas to fermentation and production choices, and gain confidence in influencing the aromatic profile of your ciders to achieve stylistic goals.
From Vision to Viability: Start-Up Cider Business Bootcamp $75 8:30am – 12pm Where to begin? There are so many hurdles and challenges that face a startup cidery in today’s economy that it is hard to even know the right questions to ask. We can help! We’re going to spend three and a half hours addressing the fundamentals of the startup process through the experience of people who have been there before and done things “mostly right”. We’ll take you from start to finish in a cidery startup lifecycle and go over business plan development including: Financing; Real estate/buildout decisions; Branding; Licensing and compliance; Employee/equipment acquisition; and more! This will be a moderated panel discussion led by industry experts, followed by a Q and A with cideries of different sizes who can provide insights on models that may be similar to your own. Our hope is that you walk away feeling confident in your startup strategies and armed with the tools needed to operate a sustainable cider company for years to come.
Certified Pommelier Exam – $350 Are you ready to take the next step in your professional development in the cider industry? If you have already passed the Certified Cider Professional Level 1 Certification and are looking for that next challenge, Register here for the Certified Pommelier Exam.
CiderCon® Welcome Reception:
Cider Share – Sponsored by Voran – 5:00pm – 7:30pm $25 for a tasting ticket. Join the world’s largest Cider Share and the official kickoff of CiderCon! Featuring 50 cideries pouring cider from all over the world, delicious food, and all of your cider friends in one room. If you would like to pour your cider at Cider Share, you can apply here. If you are accepted to pour at the event, two complimentary tasting tickets are included for the people pouring your cider.
Tasting Sessions – Please note that sold out tasting sessions will have limited room in the back for those who want to listen to the lecture but not taste (free of charge). These are offered on a first come, first serve basis as space allows. Please be patient while ticket holders are seated first. Note: Some tasting sessions overlap! Don’t purchase tickets to every session – save some tickets for others, please. We charge a nominal fee for tasting sessions to create ticket-holder accountability, support our drink coordinator staff, buy our volunteers coffee, and cover any shipping costs for our generous speakers. Tasting session tickets are refundable and transferable before a session has taken place.
Wednesday, February 5th:
11am – Building a Responsive Wild Fermentation Program $20 This panel brings together four cidermakers to share detailed, practical insights into their wild fermentation programs—from fruit to final packaging. Each will walk through their unique approach, focusing on how they adapt to shifting conditions, including the impacts of climate change, while maintaining quality and consistency. Attendees will gain real-world strategies, hands-on techniques, and a deeper understanding of how to build or refine a wild fermentation program that is resilient, adaptable, and responsive to evolving challenges.
11am – Regional Identity in Eastern Cider $20 Taste the magic of how place and style transform cider. In this unique panel, Eastern cideries craft their own expressions from the same blended apple juice grown at Ricker Hill Orchards. Attendees will taste side-by-side ciders while learning about regional influences, fermentation choices, and stylistic intent. A rare chance to experience the artistry of cider through a shared starting point.
2pm – Who Put the Band-Aid in the Barnyard? $20 This session will attempt to tease apart the relative effects of apple character and yeast activity when it comes to phenolic aromas in cider. Many ciders, especially those produced using bittersweet and bittersharp apples, exhibit aromatic profiles described as clove, Band -Aid, barnyard, etc. These aromas, lumped into a category described as “phenolic” by Peter Mitchell and others, are very similar to those found in wines and beers that have been exposed, intentionally or not, to certain yeast strains, most notably Brettanomyces species. What kind of aromas are possible in apples with very low polyphenolic concentrations? What effect does yeast choice have on bittersweet and bittersharp apples? What are the most effective levers to pull when seeking to increase or decrease the phenolic aromas in a cider?
2pm – Going Still: The Resurgence of a Style $20 Still ciders are making a comeback, celebrated for their elegance, depth, and ability to showcase fruit and terroir. In this guided tasting, cideries from across the globe will share their approaches to crafting still cider, from cellar techniques to cultural traditions. Panelists will discuss why these quiet ciders are special, how they fit into their portfolios, and what makes them resonate with today’s drinkers. Attendees will taste along while exploring the artistry behind this resurgent style.
3:45pm – Golden Russet: A Northeast Terroir Showcase $20 Golden Russet is a storied American heirloom apple, beloved for its rich tannins and complex character in cider. In this session, a panel of Eastern cideries will showcase single-varietal Golden Russet ciders, highlighting how regional terroir shapes its expression. Attendees will taste and compare styles while learning about orchard practices, fermentation choices, and traditions that influence the final glass. This session is a rare chance to explore the depth and diversity of one iconic apple.
Thursday, February 6th:
10:30am The Traditional Method – The Why and The How $20 Traditional Method cider, which originated in England before Champagne, relies on natural fermentation to create its signature sparkle. This approach offers numerous benefits: elegant bubbles, minimal equipment needs, scalability from home to commercial production, preservation of fruit character, and the ability to achieve high carbonation without gushing. In this session, a panel of micro, medium, and large-scale producers will demonstrate the equipment and techniques suited to each production level, with guided tastings comparing Traditional Method to other styles. Attendees will leave with practical knowledge and key process insights to apply at any scale—from home cidermaking to professional production.
10:30am Taste of the North: Ontario Craft Cider $20 Ontario, Canada is a massive province with a huge range of soils and climates. We range from zone 7 to 0 and have every type of soil imaginable. Join a panel of cider makers from distinct ecoregions to discuss their orchard’s terroir and its impact on their apple and cider flavours. How this Northern climate makes for distinct ciders and distinguishes Ontario cider from the rest of the world.
2pm Evaluating Cider for the Certified Pommelier Exam $20 Participants will practice blindly evaluating two ciders using the ACA’s Structured Sensory Evaluation process guided by Certified Pommelier and ACA Director of Education and Program Development, Jennie Dorsey and a panel of Certified Pommeliers. This session will teach you how to objectively assess any cider, empowering you in the cidery and in assisting customers to find a cider they love while also helping you to prepare for the sensory portion of the Certified Pommelier exam.
2pm Essentials of Apple Brandy Production: Capturing the Spirits of your Orchard $20 Ever wondered what it would take to turn your cider into gorgeous brandy? Unfortunately, not every cider you make would work. Learn the differences between fermentation for cider versus brandy. How different equipment, fruit, aging and other techniques impact the final product. How to work with your local distillers and regulations in your region. And what it takes to craft spirits from your orchard.
3:45pm World of Cider: The Baltic Region $20 Cider is a global tradition with deep regional roots and distinctive expressions. In this international tasting panel, producers from Ukraine, the Baltics, Portugal, France, and the United Kingdom will share their ciders and perspectives, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore how history, culture, and terroir shape cider around the world. From heritage-rich regions to emerging cider scenes, this guided tasting will highlight both the diversity and common threads that connect global cider traditions. Come ready to taste, compare, and be inspired by cider’s European story.
The ACA is proud to partner with the Cider Institute to develop a robust offering of production workshops at CiderCon 2026. Many of these sessions include a tasting component. Other tasting sessions focus on sensory lexicon, flavor and terroir.
CiderCon® Tee-Shirt $25 – Must be attending the conference – no shipping available.
Don’t forget! Use this link to book your hotel room at the Omni Providence – our host hotel and it’s connected to the Convention Center!
Note: Tours, Tastings and Sessions are subject to change. Space is limited. In the event of a session cancellation, fees will be refunded.
Important! Cancellation Policy:
In the event of cancellation by attendee (in writing to info@ciderassociation.org with receipt acknowledged by CiderCon® staff): Before November 1, 2025 – all fees paid less $100 for processing will be refunded. If cancellation occurs between November 1st, 2025 and January 20th, 2026, 50% of fees will be refunded – the remaining 50% will be forfeited. After January 20th, 2026 – the full cost will be forfeited. No refunds will be processed after this date.
Calling All Creators: Showcase Your Work at CiderCon® 2026’s New Artisan Marketplace!

Get ready to connect with cider lovers and art enthusiasts alike! For the first time ever, CiderCon® 2026 is opening the doors to artists, jewelers, and makers of all kinds with a dedicated Artisan Marketplace—a new feature within our renowned international trade show.
Whether you craft cider-inspired illustrations, forge one-of-a-kind jewelry, design textiles, create handmade soaps, or dabble in any form of artisan goods, this is your chance to showcase your work at the largest professional cider gathering in the world.
Why the Artisan Marketplace?
Cider is more than a beverage—it’s a culture. A lifestyle. An intersection of tradition, craft, storytelling, and creativity. The cider community is passionate, curious, and deeply appreciative of handmade quality—and that makes CiderCon® the perfect space to share your work with a fresh, enthusiastic audience.
This marketplace isn’t just about selling—it’s about sharing your story with hundreds of attendees who value artistry, small business, and the spirit of creation.
What You Can Expect:
- A vibrant, dedicated artist zone within the CiderCon® 2026 trade show floor
- Access to engaged cider professionals, makers, and fans from across the world
- The opportunity to network with industry leaders, fellow creatives, and future collaborators
- Inclusion in the official CiderCon® 2026 program and online vendor directory
- A curated space designed to celebrate your craft—whether it’s visual, wearable, or wildly unique
Who Should Apply?
We’re seeking a diverse lineup of vendors whose work reflects craftsmanship, originality, and heart.
Think:
- Handmade jewelry
- Printmaking and posters
- Illustration and fine art
- Pottery and ceramics
- Textile and fiber arts
- Woodworking
- Soap and body care products
- Upcycled or sustainable goods
- Cider-themed or locally inspired items
- And more!
Whether you’re a full-time maker or an emerging artisan looking for your next big opportunity, the CiderCon® Artisan Marketplace is your stage.
Event Details:
CiderCon® 2026 Trade Show
Providence, RI — February 4-5, 2026
Artisan Marketplace open during trade show hours
Vendor spots are limited and curated—apply early to be considered!
How to Apply:
Applications open June 23, 2025 and close January 1, 2026. Click here to apply.
Vendor fees are kept intentionally accessible to support small businesses, artists, and emerging creatives.
Join Us as a CiderCon® 2026 Vendor

Get ready for CiderCon® 2026, coming to the heart of Providence, Rhode Island, from February 3-5, 2026! Join us for the world’s premier cider industry conference with cider professionals from all over the globe and put your brand in front of the movers, makers, and shakers of the cider industry.
Why You Should Join Us
CiderCon® is the only event where the entire cider supply chain comes together to learn, connect, and discover what’s next. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your products and services to a crowd of over 1,000 eager cider professionals.
This is your opportunity to:
- Connect with cider producers, orchardists, and buyers from across the globe
- Showcase your products and services to a highly engaged audience
- Generate leads, build brand awareness, and deepen industry relationships
- Be seen as a key player supporting the growth and innovation of the cider community
Exclusive trade show hours means crowds of attendees will head your way to connect with your business. In addition, games and a happy hour will ensure that attendees are stopping by your booth for a visit.
Vendor and Sponsorship Perks
- Booth Spaces: Secure your 10’ x 10’ booth for just $2500, which includes three conference passes and lunch on Wednesday & Thursday. Booth prices increase on July 1 so book your booth now to lock in the lowest rates!
- Sponsorship Opportunities: Elevate your brand with custom sponsorships. Stand out and support the American Cider Association while reaching a dedicated audience.
Spots are limited — reserve your booth now and be part of the buzz!
Interested? Fill out our CiderCon® 2026 Vendor Application today!
Have questions? Contact our Trade Show Coordinator Ellen Husch at tradeshow@ciderassociation.org.
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!
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.
Cider Share at CiderCon® 2025
Join us at the Cider Share Welcoming Reception on Wednesday, February 5 from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM to officially kick off CiderCon® 2025! With up to 60 cideries pouring cider from all over the world, delicious food, and all your cider friends in one room, this is the perfect way to celebrate the start of CiderCon®! Whether you’re an experienced cidermaker or new to the industry, Cider Share is a great place to connect with others and start the conference on a high note.
A big thanks to the continuing sponsorship of Voran to help make Cider Share happen!
Tickets for Cider Share are only $20 for ACA members and $30 for non-members, so make sure to add it to your registration as space is limited.
Already registered for CiderCon® 2025 but forgot to add Cider Share tickets? Add them now by clicking here!
Interesting in pouring your ciders at Cider Share?
If you’re a cidermaker, consider applying to serve your ciders at Cider Share. Cideries will be selected through a lottery, with attention to geography and style. Pouring space is limited so please submit your application for consideration as soon as possible.
Fill out the application form here.
The deadline to apply is January 15 or when space is full. Cideries accepted to pour will be notified and asked for additional details.
Two pourers are allowed per company, and all other employees must buy tickets to attend.
Raise A Glass: A Celebration of Diverse Cider Voices

Join us for an exclusive 4-course paired tasting dinner at the renowned Black-owned Bronzeville Winery in Chicago on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 from 6:00 – 9:00 PM. This special CiderCon® event is designed to showcase ciders crafted by cidermakers of color, celebrating diversity and creativity within the cidermaking industry. Tickets are on sale now and available to CiderCon® attendees and the general public.
Meet the Featured Cidermakers
This event brings together the talents of several accomplished BIPOC cidermakers who are making waves in the industry:

Hannah Ferguson from D.O.P.E. Cider House and Winery in Ohio.
Hannah Ferguson was born and raised in Youngstown, OH. Hannah has been a home wine and cider maker for 10 years. She started D.O.P.E. (Dwelling On Positive Energy) Brands LLC in 2017. To expand her knowledge in the industry in 2018 she became an assistant brewer for a local brewery and stayed in the position for 2.5 years. Hannah is the first female black brewer in the state of Ohio, she is also the first black female owned cider and winery (she is the head wine and cider maker) in the state of Ohio DOPE Cider House and Winery opened August 20, 2022. DOPE Brands, LLC is not only a cider and wine manufacturer, but we are a lifestyle brand that takes pride in creating connections and experiences uniquely through cider and wine. Most importantly D.O.P.E. is about Dwelling On Positive Energy and empowering underrepresented minorities in the industry as well as enthusiasts.

Monique Tribble from Yonder Cider in Washington
A lover of all things fermented, Monique Tribble was born in the heart of Oregon Wine Country. After college, she headed to Alaska to help run a small bed and breakfast. It was there, not Oregon, that she discovered and honed her love of wine. After long days at sea, fishermen would come to the B&B for dinner, drinking and sharing with Monique their best bottles. It’s in these moments, in the most unexpected of places, she discovered her favorites – Oregon Pinot Noirs – were from the very place she grew up and knew she had found her calling. Monique returned to Oregon to work at Lange Estate Winery in the tasting room and cellar to take her new found passion to the next level. Also spending time at Firesteed and a winery in Arizona, Monique quickly began exploring what other fruit she could ferment. The answer was apples and she jumped on as the head cidermaker at Wandering Aengus Ciderworks, followed by time at Seattle Cider Company as lead cidermaker and Republic of Cider as director of production. Now Head Cidermaker at Yonder Cider, Monique spends her days dreaming up and creating new fermentations, continuously exploring new varietals and the characteristics they impart. A passionate cook and avid record collector, she hopes to one day open an operation of her own, honoring her late grandparents whom she pressed apples with throughout her childhood.

Y. Dave Klawer from Alma Cider in Washington
Dave Klawer is a cidermaker, orchardist, Certified Pommelier, cider advocate, educator, and enthusiast. Dave’s desire to spend more time outdoors, his interest in growing tree fruit, and his joy of fermentation led him to pursue a Master’s Degree in Agriculture. His dream is to grow and supply NW cidermakers with world class cider fruit, and high quality fresh pressed juice. When Dave is not focused on cider, he spends time with his wife and kids, and he continues to work his 20-year career as a registered nurse. Dave and his wife Heather co-founded Bitters & Sharps. A family owned wholesale nursery and orchard management company located in the beautiful Skagit Valley of NW Washington. Bitters & Sharps specializes in and consults on cider fruit production, custom grafting, orchard design, and orchard planning. Dave’s ambitions are driven by his desire to craft the best possible cider and perry products. He believes knowledge sharing and collaboration within the cider community is essential to elevating NW ciders and the cider category in general. Lastly, he really, really likes cider.

Richard Yi from Brooklyn Cider House in New York
Brooklyn Cider House started out of a love for Basque ciders, and that passion remains. However, their focus has evolved and cidermaker Richard Yi, son of founder and cidermaker Peter Yi, is excited to part of the team now creating their own twists on classic cider styles and pushing the boundaries of what cider can be. Richard and the team are excited to experiment with different aging vessels, like amphora, and explore co-ferments. Investing in innovative, passion-driven projects has always been at the core of the company and Richard can’t wait to try the fruits of their labor. In addition, the Yi family has an orchard that is filled with heirloom varieties of apples that they use in their ciders.

And featuring cider from Casa de Oro Cider in California
As a Latinx owned & operated cidery Casa de Oro Cider is uniquely positioned to celebrate the diverse cultural & ancestral heritage that the Americas have. They feel it is their responsibility to preserve & contribute to that legacy and with every drop of cider their patrons drink, they too are a part of this experience. Their ciders focus on elevating Mexican ingredients to work in concert with traditional cidermaking practices. They produce high ABV wine-like ciders that strike a balance with the big and bold characteristics that their ingredients provide. They let their cider ferment naturally, meaning while we monitor the process we have minimal to no intervention throughout the entire process allowing the native yeast, fruit, and adjuncts to fully express themselves. This results in an unfiltered, still, dry, rich, unctuous cider. Theirs cider offer the natural variations from season to season and terroir to terroir making each batch release special.
These passionate cidermakers will guide you through the tasting experience, offering insights into their creative processes and the inspirations behind their unique blends.
A Celebration of Culture and Community
Set against the backdrop of Chicago’s rich culinary scene, this dinner promises an unforgettable fusion of flavors and cultures. It’s an opportunity not only to enjoy delicious food and outstanding cider but also to connect with a community that values diversity and innovation.
Throughout the evening, each carefully curated course will be paired with distinctive craft ciders, offering a unique flavor journey for guests. What makes this event truly special is the opportunity to hear the stories and traditions behind the ciders, as shared by the cidermakers themselves. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the artistry involved in cidermaking and the vibrant cultural influences that shape each sip.
Seats for this one-of-a-kind event are limited. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this extraordinary evening. Reserve your spot today! Tickets are $160 (includes gratuity, taxes and fees) and are available to add on during CiderCon® 2025 registration or through Bronzeville Winery (gratuity, taxes and fees added at time of purchase).
ACA Announces Keynote Speakers for CiderCon® 2025 from New York and Minnesota
Speakers to Focus on Conference Theme: “Cider’s Balanced Future: Planet, People, Profit”

The 15th annual CiderCon® will take place in Chicago, Illinois from February 4-7, 2025 at the beautiful Hilton Chicago. CiderCon®, the world’s largest professional cider conference, will feature a stellar line-up of speakers who will delve into the 2025 theme, “Cider’s Balanced Future: Planet, People, Profit.” Speakers will cover a wide range of topics on sustainability, ranging from agricultural practices to business practices, manufacturing, people management and beyond.
The ACA is thrilled to feature three keynote speakers who will touch on a sustainable approach to cider that addresses the planet, people and profit. Scott Ramsey, Executive Director of the New York Cider Association, will facilitate a “fireside chat” with New York Liquor Commissioner Lily Fan. They will discuss 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 will share how she and her husband Jim approach sustainability at their operations from multiple perspectives.

Lily Fan / NY Liquor Commission: NY Liquor Commissioner Lily Fan was nominated to lead the New York State Liquor Authority by Governor Kathy Hochul and is the first woman to head the agency. She is an engaging and heartfelt speaker that will share how she has effectively shaped the liquor authority’s approach to support small brands.

Scott Ramsey / New York Cider Association: Executive Director Scott Ramsey brings more than 30 years of corporate and non-profit marketing, communications, event production, and strategic leadership experience to his work in promoting, advocating, and building markets for New York Cider.

Debbie Morrison / Yellow Belly Cidery: Debbie and her husband Jim are the owners of Sapsucker Farms and Yellow Belly Cidery, a 179-acre regenerative farm in Quamba, Minnesota. They are well known for seamlessly integrating the natural environment in their operation, which includes growing vegetables, fruits, honey bees, maple syrup, chickens, and of course, an apple orchard. They are a regional community hub and prioritize the planet, people and profit at their cidery.
“Sustainability is an important topic for cidermakers right now,” says ACA CEO Michelle McGrath. “We’re an agricultural product at heart, so we’re especially tied to the planet, the people and the small businesses developing this industry. We’ll be looking at how to nurture a collaborative industry that supports these pillars.”
In addition to the keynote, there are several talks throughout the week in at CiderCon® 2025 that will discuss why aligning with a triple bottom line approach is particularly important to business right now, including 3 Tier Beverage’s Crafting the Future: Gen-Z’s Influence on Alcohol Brands and Tapping into Green – Marketing Sustainability In Cider with Amanda Oborne and Davey McHenry.
To learn more about the triple bottom line approach to sustainability, watch this video from Outlier.org.
To learn more about the conference, head to the CiderCon® 2025 website.
2025 ACA Award Nominations

The American Cider Association is pleased to announce that we have opened nominations for the ACA Awards for folks who are doing great things for cider! We welcome your nominations for businesses and people who have been excellent ambassadors for cider in the last year.
Please nominate only one business or person per category. Businesses should not be cideries, but those who help promote cider through their support of cideries and cidermakers. Please submit your nominations by December 1, 2024. Only submissions from active members will be accepted.
We will be presenting awards in each ACA defined region in the following categories:
- Best Cider Retailer
- Best Cider Focused Establishment
- Best Cider Distributor
- Cider Advocate of the Year: A cider tender that excels at promoting cider (Cidery employees can nominated for this award)
- Excellence in Leadership within the Industry (ACA Member)
- Significant Impact on the Industry
- Apple Advocate of the Year: an individual that excels at being an ambassador to the fruit
Awards will be presented at CiderCon® 2025!