Expanding Global Cider Education: ACA Partners with The Drinks Trust and Heineken to make the Certified Cider Guide™ Course More Accessible in the UK

By Woodley Smith | October 20, 2025 |

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.

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Introducing the Certified Cider Guide™ Digital Flashcards

By Woodley Smith | October 13, 2025 |

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.

Check Them Out Now!
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American Cider Association Welcomes New Canadian Licensed Educator

By Woodley Smith | October 7, 2025 |

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.

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Haritz Rodriguez Joins the Certified Cider Professional™ Program as a Licensed Educator in Spain, Portugal, and Mexico.

By Woodley Smith | September 17, 2025 |

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.

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ACA Partners with Brock University to Offer Certified Cider Guide™ Workshop in Canada

By Woodley Smith | September 17, 2025 |

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.

Learn More & Register Now
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Unlocking Cider Education: A New Study Resource Partnership Between ACA and Press Then Press

By Woodley Smith | August 20, 2025 |

The American Cider Association (ACA) is proud to announce a new partnership with Press Then Press, a leading online cider retailer with a passion for education and community-building. This collaboration is centered around one shared goal: making cider and cider education more accessible to enthusiasts, professionals, and Certified Cider Professional™ (CCP) candidates across the country.

Through this partnership, Press Then Press will now offer curated study boxes with resources and digital downloads supplied directly from the American Cider Association. This partnership supports the Certified Cider Professional™ Program, starting with Level 1, Certified Cider Guide™ and carrying through to L2, Certified Pommelier™. These materials include practice exam questions, completed sensory analysis forms, sensory videos, and other helpful tools designed to build confidence and cider knowledge in a flexible, engaging format.

Why It Matters

The Certified Cider Professional™ Program is the first and only certification program dedicated to the international cider industry. It empowers service professionals, retailers, distributors, and cider lovers with the knowledge to confidently understand and share the nuances of cider, from apple varieties and production methods to food pairing and sensory evaluation.

By teaming up with Press Then Press, the ACA is extending the reach of these resources and giving learners a trusted shipping hub to find the large array of ciders needed for sensory evaluation expertise.

More resources are on the way, including enhanced digital tools, flashcard decks, and sensory evaluation aids.

Where to Find It

Visit the Press Then Press website to explore cider bundle options and visit the American Cider Association website for the growing catalog of CCP-certified resources.

Together, We’re Building a Stronger Cider Community

This partnership marks a major step forward in making cider education approachable and enjoyable for all. Whether you’re brushing up your knowledge or taking the next step in your cider career, ACA and Press Then Press are here to support your journey.

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“Hard Cider Guy” Adrian Luna- Verduga Joins American Cider Association as Licensed Educator in the Northeast

By Woodley Smith | July 21, 2025 |

The American Cider Association (ACA) is pleased to introduce Adrian Luna-Verduga, widely known in the cider community as the Hard Cider Guy, as the newest Licensed Cider Educator serving New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. A passionate advocate, Certified Pommelier™, and content creator, Adrian brings an enthusiastic and relatable voice for cider education.

Adrian’s cider journey began during a two-year road trip across the U.S. and Canada, where he and two friends chronicled their experiences exploring regional cider scenes. Adrian’s ability to translate cider culture into accessible, fun, and informative content has earned him a strong following and the respect of cider lovers and professionals alike.

As a Licensed Educator, Adrian will be offering ACA’s Level 1 Certified Cider Guide (CCG) certification workshops, helping beverage professionals and enthusiasts alike deepen their understanding of cider styles, service, and sensory evaluation. His appointment supports ACA’s mission to grow appreciation for cider and expand access to high-quality, standardized cider education across the world.

“Adrian embodies what we look for in a cider educator: curiosity, generosity, and a deep commitment to helping people connect with cider in meaningful ways,” said Jennie Dorsey, ACA’s Director of Education. “His energy is infectious, and his presence in the Northeast will be a huge asset to the cider community there.”

Adrian is based in the Northeast and is currently booking sensory sessions and workshops. For more information or to inquire about hosting a Certified Cider Professional training, visit our website.

For NE-specific inquiries, reach out to Adrian directly at Adrian@ciderassociation.org.

For all other inquiries, contact Jennie Dorsey at Jennie@ciderassociation.org.

Are You a Certified Pommelier Interested in Teaching?

We’re always looking for enthusiastic cider professionals to join our network of Certified Cider Professional Licensed Educators. If you’re a Certified Pommelier™ passionate about sharing your knowledge, we’d love to connect.

Contact Jennie Dorsey at jennie@ciderassociation.org to learn how you can get involved.

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Sixteen New Certified Pommeliers Join the Ranks of Global Cider Experts

By Woodley Smith | June 25, 2025 |

The American Cider Association is proud to welcome sixteen new Certified Pommeliers to our growing international community of cider professionals. These individuals earned their certifications at recent exams held in Frankfurt, Germany; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Los Angeles, California, proving once again that cider education is going global.

As cider’s presence on menus and shelves continues to expand, formal training and credentialing are more important than ever. Whether you’re behind the bar, designing a beverage program, or guiding tastings, cider knowledge isn’t just an asset—it’s a necessity.

“We’re thrilled to welcome these Certified Pommeliers to our vibrant and growing community,” said Jennie Dorsey, ACA Director of Education and Program Development. “Each one of them brings a passion for cider and a commitment to excellence that is helping shape the future of the industry.”

Meet the New Class of Certified Pommeliers

Please join us in congratulating the following individuals on achieving this rigorous certification:

Each Certified Pommelier has completed a demanding exam that includes theory, written responses, and blind sensory analysis. Their achievement represents not only personal dedication but also a commitment to advancing the cider category at large.

Why Certified Pommelier Matters

The Certified Pommelier designation is more than a title—it’s a testament to deep expertise and the ability to elevate cider service at every level.

From restaurant dining rooms to tasting rooms, beverage distributors to educators, Certified Pommeliers bring:

  • In-depth knowledge of global cider traditions and production methods
  • Expertise in pairing cider with food in innovative, memorable ways
  • Sensory skills that rival top-level wine or beer professionals
  • A competitive edge in hiring, advancement, and industry leadership

“We know that top dining experiences are built on knowledgeable, confident service—and cider deserves to be part of that conversation,” said ACA CEO Monica Cohen. “Our Certified Cider Professional program ensures that hospitality leaders are prepared to showcase cider’s full potential and deliver elevated experiences to every guest.”

About the Certified Cider Professional Program

The Certified Cider Professional (CCP) Program is the world’s leading cider education pathway, offering two levels of certification:

To support learners, the ACA offers a growing suite of resources, including webinars, study guides, and the newly updated Certified Pommelier textbook (2nd edition). 

Ready to Join the Ranks?

Upcoming Level 2 Certified Pommelier exams are scheduled for:

If you’re ready to take your cider knowledge to the next level—or you’re just getting started with Level 1—visit ciderassociation.org/certification for more details, prep materials, and registration info.

For questions, reach out to Jennie Dorsey, ACA’s Director of Education and Program Development.

Congratulations to our new Certified Pommeliers—we can’t wait to see how you’ll shape the future of cider!

Posted in CCP, Certified Pommelier and tagged , , ,

ACA Welcomes Jessica Arlich to the Certified Cider Professional Licensed Educator Team

By Jennie Dorsey | June 4, 2025 |

We’re excited to welcome Jessica Arlich as the newest member of our Certified Cider Professional Licensed Educator team!

Based in Vancouver, Washington, Jessica brings a vibrant mix of cider expertise, creativity, and educational passion to cider enthusiasts across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.

Jessica’s cider journey began behind the bar as a dedicated enthusiast and cider slinger. Her curiosity and commitment to learning led her to pursue the Certified Pommelier designation – an intensive certification that she earned in 2023. This achievement reflects her deep knowledge of cider production, history, and sensory analysis.

In addition to her credentials, Jessica is a dynamic presence in the cider world. She shares her insights on cider styles and industry trends through her blog, Esters, where she combines thoughtful analysis with a fresh voice.

“With her background as a graphic designer and community leader, Jessica brings creativity, enthusiasm, and a unique perspective to her role,” says Jennie Dorsey, ACA’s Director of Education. “Whether she’s leading workshops, tastings, or educational sessions, Jessica has a gift for making cider education both accessible and inspiring.”

Please join us in warmly welcoming Jessica to the team! We’re confident that her energy and expertise will elevate cider education throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Visit cidercertification.org to learn more about the Certified Cider Professional Program and education opportunities worldwide.

For PNW-specific inquiries, reach out to Jessica directly at Jessica@ciderassociation.org.
For all other inquiries, contact Jennie Dorsey at Jennie@ciderassociation.org.

Are You a Certified Pommelier Interested in Teaching?

We’re always looking for enthusiastic cider professionals to join our network of Certified Cider Professional Licensed Educators. If you’re a Certified Pommelier passionate about sharing your knowledge, we’d love to connect. Contact Jennie Dorsey at jennie@ciderassociation.org to learn how you can get involved.

Posted in CCP, Certified Pommelier and tagged , , , ,

ACA Welcomes 18 People to the Growing Ranks of Certified Pommeliers Following CiderCon® 2025 Exam

By Woodley Smith | March 26, 2025 |

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:

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

Meet All of Our Certified Pommeliers
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