Celebrating Success at GLINTCAP 2025

We’re raising our glasses—filled with cider, of course—to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our incredible members at this year’s Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition (GLINTCAP). Known as the world’s largest and most esteemed cider competition, GLINTCAP is a true testament to cider craftsmanship, creativity, and excellence. With over 1,000 entries from around the globe, this competition provides a platform for cidermakers to showcase their dedication and skill.

Celebrating Craftsmanship and Innovation

These accolades are not just about the medals; they reflect our members’ innovation, dedication to their craft, and unwavering passion for crafting top-notch cider. Congratulations to all our talented members who made a splash at GLINTCAP 2025! From micro to large producers, it’s a joy to witness such diversity and excellence within our community. Check out ACA member medal winners below!

Cidermaker of the Year

• Micro Cidermaker of the Year – 5,000 Gallons or Less: Empyrical Orchard & Cidery – Snohomish, Washington
• Small Cidermaker of the Year – 5,001 to 25,000 Gallons: Haykin Family Cider – Aurora, Colorado
• Midsize Cidermaker of the Year – 25,001 to 500,000 Gallons: Snow Capped Cider – Austin, Colorado
• Large Cidermaker of the Year – 500,001 Gallons or More: 2 Towns Ciderhouse – Corvallis, Oregon
• Canadian Cidermaker of the Year: Annapolis Cider Company – Wolfville, Nova Scotia
• Click here to see the complete list of Producer of the Year honorees.

Commercial Best-in-Class

• Modern Cider – Dry: Alde Sider Fra Hardanger – Alde Sider (Norway)
• Modern Cider – Sweet: Smackintosh – Tandem Ciders (MI, USA)
• Heirloom Cider – Sweet: Chisel Jersey – Snow Capped Cider (CO, USA)
• Tannin Forward Cider – Dry: Kingston Black SV – Bauman’s Cider (OR, USA)
• Tannin Forward Cider – Sweet: Marechal – Haykin Family Cider (CO, USA)
• Rosé Cider: Airlie Red – Raw Cider Company (OR, USA)
• Low Tannin Perry: Winter Pear – Snow Capped Cider (CO, USA)
• High Tannin Perry: Principle – Empyrical Orchard & Cidery (WA, USA)
• Fruit Cider – Dry: Porters & Perry – Snow Capped Cider (CO, USA)
• Hopped Cider: Hopped Brut Apple – Island Orchard Cider (WI, USA)
• Botanical Cider: Lavender Honey – Tieton Cider Works (WA, USA)
• Wood Aged Cider: Blanc Mollet – Snow Capped Cider (CO, USA)
• Specialty Cider – Dry: Hopped Apricot – Snow Capped Cider (CO, USA)
• Ice Cider: McIntosh Ice Cider – Haykin Family Cider (CO, USA)
• Spirits: Michigan Honeycrisp Vodka – Vander Mill (MI, USA)
• Click here to see the complete list of 2025 Best-in-Class Winners

Recognizing Expertise and Growth

We are also pleased to announce that more than 20 Certified Pommeliers from across the globe were judges this year. Their high standard of sensory and technical knowledge is invaluable, and their presence highlights the growth of the certification program and the increasing professionalism within the cider industry.

In addition to these experts, we were delighted to have cider professionals supported by the ACA’s Cider is for Everyone Scholarship as judges this year. This initiative seeks to increase equity and access within the cider world, bringing new voices and perspectives to the competition.

ACA Director of Education Jennie Dorsey says, “Bringing together Certified Pommeliers and new voices through the scholarship program strengthens both the technical and cultural foundation of this competition.”