Cider Sensory Workshops Coming to Canada with Licensed Educator Jenna Boucher

The American Cider Association is bringing cider education to Canada this spring with a series of interactive cider sensory workshops designed to help participants taste cider like a professional.

Led by Canadian Licensed Educator Jenna Boucher, these hands-on workshops will take place in Victoria, Vancouver, and Ontario, offering beverage professionals and cider enthusiasts the chance to deepen their tasting skills and build confidence evaluating cider.

Whether you work in hospitality, retail, cider production, or simply want to understand cider on a deeper level, these workshops provide an engaging introduction to professional cider sensory analysis.

Learn to Taste Cider Like a Pro

Cider is one of the most diverse fermented beverages in the world, with flavor influenced by apple varieties, fermentation methods, orchard terroir, and regional traditions. Developing sensory skills helps tasters recognize these differences and communicate them clearly.

During these workshops, participants will learn how to:

  • Identify key cider aromas and flavor characteristics
  • Recognize common cider faults and off-aromas
  • Develop a structured tasting vocabulary
  • Understand cider styles and production influences
  • Evaluate cider using professional sensory techniques

The workshops include guided tastings, aroma training exercises, and practical evaluation methods used by cider professionals around the world.

Upcoming Cider Sensory Workshops in Canada

London, Ontario – Cider Sensory Workshop

Heeman’s Cellars- Cider Salon Canada
March 27th
2:00–4:30 PM

Set in Ontario’s growing cider community, this event takes place alongside Cider Salon Canada, an event featuring Ontario’s finest cidermakers. Taste the best orchard-based regional ciders and grow your palate and learn sensory evaluation techniques like a pro.

Victoria, British Columbia – Cider Sensory Workshop

Junction Orchard & Cidery
April 11
3:00–5:30 PM

Set among the orchards of Vancouver Island, this workshop provides a beautiful setting to explore cider aromas and flavors. Participants will taste through curated cider samples while learning professional sensory evaluation techniques.

Vancouver, British Columbia – Cider Sensory Workshop

Parallel 49 Brewing Company
May 7
6:30–9:00 PM

Join us in Vancouver for an evening cider tasting workshop focused on building sensory confidence. Through structured exercises and guided discussion, participants will learn how cider professionals evaluate aroma, flavor, and balance.

Meet the Educator: Jenna Boucher

These workshops are led by Canadian Licensed Educator Jenna Boucher, an award-winning cidermaker, judge, and Certified Pommelier™. Known for her approachable teaching style, Jenna helps participants break down complex sensory concepts into practical tasting skills.

Her experience across Canada’s cider industry makes her uniquely positioned to guide both professionals and enthusiasts through the nuances of cider flavor and aroma.

Who Should Attend?

These cider sensory workshops are ideal for:

  • Hospitality professionals
  • Sommeliers, Cicerones, and beverage directors
  • Retail buyers and bottle shop staff
  • Cidermakers and orchardists
  • Certified Pommelier™ candidates
  • Cider enthusiasts who want to deepen their knowledge

Participants will leave with stronger tasting skills, a deeper understanding of cider styles, and tools to confidently talk about cider in professional or social settings.

Expanding Cider Education in Canada

The American Cider Association continues to expand cider education programs across North America, helping build knowledge and appreciation for cider through certification programs, professional training, and public workshops.

Bringing sensory workshops to Canada reflects the growing interest in cider education, professional cider certification, and sensory training within the global cider community.

Join a Canadian Cider Workshop

Seats for these hands-on workshops are limited to ensure an engaging learning environment.

If you’ve ever wanted to improve your cider tasting skills, understand cider aromas, or learn professional sensory evaluation techniques, these workshops are the perfect place to start.

Come curious. Leave tasting cider like a pro.

Interested in learning more about global cider education programming? Email Director of Education Jennie@ciderassociation.org or visit our Certified Cider Professional™ educational programming pages.

March 28th Taste Like A Pro: Cider Sensory Workshop at Armageddon Brewing

Join us at Armageddon Brewing in Somerdale, NJ on March 28th!

Join us for a sensory deep dive into the world of cider and learn to taste cider like a pro! Whether you’re preparing for the Certified Pommelier™ exam or just curious how pros taste cider,  this immersive, hands-on session will give you the tools to sip and share with confidence. You’ll learn how to detect flavors, spot faults, and describe cider like a seasoned cider professional. Walk away prepared for your exam, or to wow your friends with a sharper palate and a deeper love for the world’s most diverse fermented beverage.

Price: $45 Non-members, $35 ACA members (Member Discount can be found in the Resource Hub)

Location: Armageddon Brewing, 

 900 Chestnut Ave, Suite J, Somerdale, NJ 08083

Schedule:

  • Welcome & Introduction (10 min)
  • Part 1: Foundations of Sensory Tasting (25 min)
  • Part 2: Structured Tasting Practice (60 min)
  • Part 3: Identifying/Understanding Common Cider Faults (20 min)
  • Part 4: Elevate Your Tasting Vocabulary (15 min)
  • Wrap-Up + Q&A (20 min)

Explore the Art of Food & Cider Pairing with Jennie Dorsey’s New Book

For those who have ever wondered how to elevate their dining experience with the perfect cider pairing, Jennie Dorsey, the Director of Education at the American Cider Association, has crafted the ultimate guide. Her new book, Cider Paired and Plated: The Art of Food and Cider Pairing, is a sensory-driven journey that caters to professionals, enthusiasts, and curious drinkers alike and is now available for purchase on Amazon.com. In addition, it will be available for purchase at CiderCon® 2026 where Jennie will be happy to sign it for you!

Cider Paired and Plated weaves together foundational pairing theory with practical applications, exploring how elements like acidity, tannin, sweetness, carbonation, and aroma play with texture, fat, spice, and umami on the plate. Whether you’re a fan of crisp modern ciders, tannic bittersweet varieties, or sweet dessert ciders, you’ll find strategies to enhance your dining experience without feeling overwhelmed.

Cider Paired and Plated offers curated pairings across multiple courses, including:

  • Cheeses
  • Small plates and appetizers
  • Entrées
  • Desserts
  • Cider-based cocktails

Each section features thoughtfully developed recipes, complete with step-by-step cooking instructions and practical notes on why each pairing excels. The cocktail recipes, in particular, highlight cider’s versatility as both a primary ingredient and a structural element behind the bar.

Designed to be both a reference and an invitation to experiment, Cider Paired and Plated encourages readers to think seasonally, locally, and creatively. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner, developing a beverage program, or studying for professional cider certification, this book empowers you to place cider at the heart of modern food and drink culture.

With an emphasis on sensory awareness, storytelling, and shared experiences, Cider Paired and Plated positions cider not as an alternative but as a centerpiece of contemporary culinary experiences. It’s an invitation to discover new dimensions of taste and enjoyment, one glass at a time. Check it out today!

ACA Welcomes Three New Certified Pommeliers™ Following Exam in Virginia

The American Cider Association (ACA) is pleased to announce that three individuals have achieved the rank of Certified Pommelier™ following an exam held in Charlottesville, Virginia on October 6. The newly minted Certified Pommeliers™ are Brittany Kordick of Kordick Family Farm, Joanne Mumbey of BeyLoved Pairings LLC and award winning amateur cidermaker Brad Winans.

Joanne Mumbey, Brittany Kordick, and Brad Winans

“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. As cider’s popularity continues to grow, 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 is elevated.” 

More about the Certified Cider Professional™ Program and Upcoming Opportunities

The Certified Cider Professional™ 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 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 is an upcoming exam at CiderCon® 2026 in Providence, Rhode Island on February 3. Registration for the exam is on the ACA website. While exam takers do not have to be registered for CiderCon® 2026 to take the exam, it is highly recommended as a way to connect with the larger cider community.

Contact the ACA’s Director of Education Jennie Dorsey for more information about global cider education and access to Certified Cider Professional™ programming near you.  You can also learn more at https://ciderassociation.org/certification

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

The American Cider Association (ACA) is proud to announce that Haritz Rodriguez, known across the cider world as @Ciderzale, has been appointed as the next Licensed Educator for the Certified Cider Professional™ (CCP) Program.

Haritz brings more than a decade of experience in cider education, culture, and promotion to this role. An independent journalist and marketing consultant specializing in the agrifood sector, Haritz has spent the last ten years working with cider producers, organizations, and festivals around the world to promote cider, cider tourism, and cider culture.

A Certified Pommelier™ with the American Cider Association and a member of the official tasting panel for the PDO Euskal Sagardoa, Haritz is a recognized authority on Basque sagardoa and international ciders. He has co-organized major cider events such as Sidrama Ponte de Lima (Portugal) and Sagardo Forum (Basque Country) and collaborated on notable competitions and festivals including the Nordic International Cider Awards, Cider World Frankfurt, and the World Cider Awards.

Haritz also advises cider houses in the Basque Country, the USA, and the UK, offers educational talks and tastings, and serves as a judge at numerous competitions worldwide. In 2018, he founded Ciderlands, an international cider tourism and culture network, expanding his influence as a connector and advocate for the global cider community.

In addition to his work on the ground, Haritz is an accomplished cider content creator. Under his personal brand Ciderzale, he shares striking photography, videos, and stories about cider with a global audience. His writing and photography have appeared in leading cider publications including Malus Magazine, Graftwood, and Full Juice. He has also contributed to travel and educational experiences for cider makers, journalists, and writers alike.

As part of his new role with the ACA’s Certified Cider Professional™ Program, Haritz will bring his extensive knowledge and international perspective to cider professionals and enthusiasts. The CCP Program is the world’s leading cider education and certification system, designed to elevate cider knowledge, improve consumer experience, and support the growth of the cider industry worldwide.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Haritz as a Licensed Educator,” says Jennie Dorsey, Director of Education and Program Development. “His expertise, energy, and passion for cider will help us strengthen our educational offerings worldwide.”

Click here to learn more about the Certified Cider Professional™ Program.

Unlocking Cider Education: A New Study Resource Partnership Between ACA and Press Then Press

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.

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

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.

Sixteen New Certified Pommeliers Join the Ranks of Global Cider Experts

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!

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

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.

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:

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