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February 5: Certified Pommelier Exam at CiderCon® 2025
Take the Certified Pommelier Exam at CiderCon® 2025 in Chicago, Illinois on February 5!
Ready to take the next step in your professional development in the cider industry? If you have already passed the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide exam and are looking for that next challenge? Now is your chance!
The American Cider Association is pleased to announce a Certified Pommelier Exam will be held at CiderCon® 2025 at the Chicago Hilton, 720 Michigan Ave.
The exam will begin promptly at 8:30 AM on Wednesday, February 5.
*Level 1 Certified Cider Guide certification is a prerequisite for taking the Certified Pommelier Exam. (Haven’t taken your Level 1 Certified Cider Guide Exam? Buy the bundle here! ACA Member discounts are available.)
There’s also a discount code available for ACA members for the Certified Pommelier Exam. You can find that code in our Resource Hub.
WHAT IS THE CERTIFIED POMMELIER EXAM?
The American Cider Association’s mission is to grow a diverse and successful cider industry by providing valuable information, resources and services to our members and by advocating on their behalf. One way to fulfill this mission is through the Certified Cider Professional Program, a program aimed at educating the front-line of cider hospitality (distributors, retailers, bartenders and more!) while also welcoming journalists and serious cider enthusiasts.
The exam for the introductory level certification, Certified Cider Guide (CCG), is an online test that can be taken at any time. The exam for the more advanced second level of certification, Certified Pommelier, is only available in person. The exam consists of two parts, a written theory exam comprising short answer and essay questions and a blind sensory evaluation of a number of ciders. Passing the introductory level exam is a mandatory prerequisite to sitting for the Level 2 Certified Pommelier exam.
Certified Pommeliers must have a fundamental understanding of all topics covered at the introductory level, but must also be able to think critically and demonstrate a deeper understanding of cider and the cider industry.
The topics covered in the exam are:
- Apples, the Orchard & History
- Cider Making
- Flavor & Evaluation
- Cider Families
- Keeping & Serving
- Food & Cider
- Social Responsibility
The exam is meant to be challenging. The only information necessary for successfully passing the theory section of the exam is contained in the Certified Pommelier Study Guide available on Amazon. To study for the evaluation section of the exam, candidates should consider attending one of the sensory analysis videos available through the ACA’s website or attend one of the regularly scheduled webinars. Access to pre-recorded webinars and registration for upcoming live webinars is available directly through our website.
WHY BECOME A CERTIFIED POMMELIER?
Cider is a beautifully nuanced beverage that is less well understood by most consumers. Having the knowledge and skills required to become a Certified Pommelier will equip you to better serve customers, enhance your standing in the beverage community, and give you a unique and valuable professional qualification. Being recognized as a Certified Pommelier will put you in the vanguard of advanced cider specialists in this ever growing category.
HOW MUCH DOES THE TEST COST?
The registration fee for the exam is $350. Current members of the ACA can register at a discounted price of $250 by using the discount code in our Resource Hub. If a candidate sits for the exam but does not pass either section, or only passes one of the two sections, theory or sensory evaluation, they can resit for the section of the exam that they did not pass at a future date. The fee for retaking the exam is $175 for non-members and $125 for current members of the ACA.
Read Terms & Conditions before registering.
WHAT MATERIALS ARE AVAILABLE TO STUDY FOR THE EXAM?
- The Certified Pommelier Study Guide is available directly through Amazon. It is also available at all of Amazon’s international sites.This is the official study guide for the second level of the American Cider Association’s professional certification program. It contains all of the information needed to study for and pass the examination. No other reference materials are required.
- There is also a dedicated Facebook Group (that is open for all to join) with prep materials and in-depth peer conversations that many candidates have found useful.
- Sensory evaluation is an important part of being a Certified Pommelier which is why we test your ability to accurately analyze the structural components, aromas, and flavors of a variety of ciders. In order to aid in the development of your sensory evaluation skills and understand the approach to testing them, we have several pre-recorded videos available for purchase. In addition, we host several live sensory analysis webinars each year. You can access the videos and look for scheduled webinars here.
Frequently Asked Questions (Download the Frequently Asked Questions document.)
- Are there ID or minimum age requirements to sit for the event? YES. You must be of legal drinking age in the country where you sit for the exam, and when checking in at the exam you must provide a photo ID that will both verify your age and identity .
- Do I need to pass the Certified Cider Guide exam to take the Certified Pommelier exam? Yes. Passing the introductory exam to become a Certified Cider Guide is a prerequisite. If you have not yet taken this exam, you can purchase a package which includes an instructional video, study guide, and access to an online exam HERE.
- How many Certified Pommeliers are there currently? You can find the current number of Certified Pommelers here.
- Is the Certified Pommelier Exam available in my area? Certified Pommelier exams are held periodically throughout the year and in a variety of locations. Please check our current exam schedule to find an exam suitable for you.
- What can I bring into the event? You may bring only a water bottle into the exam space. Cell phones, smart watches, computers, books or papers, and any and all other personal items must be left at a designated storage area in the exam room. Pencils will be provided, and spare paper will be available on request. Spit cups, and water will be provided during the evaluation exam. We encourage you to bring your own water bottle for the theory exam. Please contact the Cider Education Operations Manager, Jennie Dorsey at jennie@ciderassociation.org prior to registering for the exam if you wish to request special accommodations.
- How can I contact the organizer with any questions? Please contact Cider Education Operations Manager Jennie Dorsey at jennie@ciderassociation.org.
- When can I register for the exam? Exam registration is open until 14 days before the posted exam date.
- What happens if I cannot attend my registered exam? Please see Exam Rescheduling, Timelines and Fees in the Terms and Conditions Document for full details. If you do need to cancel your registration, exam registration fees can be refunded up to 14 days before the exam. Please note that a $25 administration fee applies to any cancellation.
- Is it ok if the name on my ticket or registration doesn’t match the person who attends? Registrations are not transferable, so the name on the I.D. presented when checking in for the exam must match the name on the registration.
- How long does the test take? You are given 2 hours to complete the theory section of the exam and 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete the sensory evaluation section. There is a 15 minute break in between sections.
- Is there a tasting section on the test? Yes. You will be asked to evaluate six ciders in two flights, one flight that assesses your ability to distinguish between key structural elements and a second where you are asked to complete a full evaluation of three ciders using the Structured Sensory Analysis format. The possible aromas and flavors document will be supplied for use during the exam.
- What is the grade needed for passing? 60% of the possible points for sensory evaluation and 70% for theory
- When will we receive our graded exams? Exams are not returned to candidates, however you will be notified as to whether or not you have passed about 6 weeks from the exam date. If you did not pass a section of the exam, you may request a breakdown of your points by general topic to help you identify areas in which you could improve your score should you wish to retake the exam.
Press Release: Certified Cider Professional Program Expands to Asia
PRESS RELEASE
The American Cider Association (ACA) is pleased to announce the expansion of its Certified Cider Professional (CCP) education and certification program to Asia. Lee Reeve, founder of inCiderJapan and organizer of the prestigious Japan Cider Cup, has joined the ACA team as an educator for the Level 1 Certified Cider Guide in Japan, China, Korea, and elsewhere in Asia. The first in-person class for candidates studying for the Certified Cider Guide exam is scheduled for August 31, 2024 at Antenna America Kannai in Yokohama, Japan. Registration for the class will open in July.
“The American Cider Association’s Certified Cider Professional program is the world’s leading cider education program,” states Reeve. “It is an invaluable tool and certification that can benefit anyone with an interest in cider: from enthusiasts to those working in the food and beverage sector, and especially professionals within the cider and drinks industry.”
“Lee has been keen to bring the CCP program to Asia for some time,” says ACA CEO Michelle McGrath. “With his extensive knowledge of cider and the Asian cider market, and his many contacts in the region, we are very excited by what he will bring to the program.”
“As cider continues to grow and become increasingly relevant to the Asian region,” continues Reeve, “so will the thirst and desire for quality information and knowledge regarding all things cider. As such, making the CCP available in Asia is an exciting and welcome opportunity and win-win for everyone. As someone who has been promoting cider and cider education since 2017, and also a Certified Pommelier, I very much look forward to helping the ACA reach out and empower others through learning about this historic and future significant drink.”
While Asia is not commonly thought of as a cider region, Japan has a growing number of enthusiastic cidermakers as well as a robust and fruitful track record in the breeding of new apple cultivars, which are an important crop in several parts of the country, including Aomori and Nagano. In addition, China grows more apples than any country in the world, and while the market for cider there is relatively new, the possibilities are enormous.
The American Cider Association is a not-for-profit trade organization of cider and perry producers in the United States. The Certified Cider Professional program is helping the ACA reach its vision for the industry by increasing the understanding and appreciation of these historic beverages.
For more information about CCP in Asia, contact Lee Reeve at lee@ciderassociation.org. For more information on the global CCP program, contact the ACA’s Education Operations Manager, Jennie Dorsey, at jennie@ciderassociation.org.
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June is Pride Month: Celebrate our Industry and All of the People and Styles That Make It Amazing
As we step into Pride Month, it’s a perfect time to celebrate everything that makes the cider industry so vibrant and dynamic. Our community thrives because of the people and the styles and stories that they share.
Commissioned in 1978, the rainbow flag was made as a visual representation of love and safety for all races, ages, and genders in the LGBTQIA+ community. The very same safety and togetherness that we value and hold as pillars of our industry. Publicly demonstrating your alliance with these values through your brand and images helps us to keep these ideals at the forefront, and to celebrate the progress that has been made.
This Pride Month, let’s honor the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community and their invaluable impact on the Cider world. It’s a perfect time to embrace the spirit of inclusivity and unity that lies at the heart of our community. Whether you’re a seasoned cider professional or a newcomer to the scene, there’s a place for everyone here.
Join Our Rainbow Photo Contest!
To celebrate Pride Month, we’re excited to announce a photo contest that captures the essence of our community through the colors of the rainbow. We invite you to participate and showcase your creativity and love for cider in a way that highlights each vibrant hue.
How to Participate:
- Take a Photo: Snap a picture that incorporates all the colors of the rainbow or just one color of your choosing in a creative way. It could be a beautifully arranged cider tasting with colorful fruits, a picturesque orchard scene, or anything that represents the spirit of Pride and our industry.
- Share Your Story: Along with your photo, share a brief story or description of what Pride and the cider community mean to you. We want to hear your unique perspective!
- Submit Your Entry: Post your photo and story on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtag #CiderPride2024. Make sure to tag us @pickcider. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with, Instagram or Facebook.
Prizes:
The contest runs throughout the month of June, and winners will be announced in early July. Six winners will be chosen from the entries at random and will be featured in our monthly newsletter and receive a Cider is for Everyone hoodie.
Press Release: ACA Welcomes Six New European Certified Pommeliers
The American Cider Association is pleased to welcome six new European Certified Pommeliers after completion of the first certification exam offered outside of the United States. The new Certified Pommeliers are some of the key members of the European cider community, and their embrace of the Certified Cider Professional program is another step forward in the realization of the ACA’s vision for the industry through increasing the understanding and appreciation of cider and perry.
The new Certified Pommliers hale from countries across the continent including the UK, Italy, France, Germany, and Lithuania. They are Adam Wells, who was on the shortlist for 2024 Fortnum and Mason’s Drink Writer of the Year for his work at Cider Review, Marco Manfrini, president of the Associazione Pommelier e Assaggiatori di Sidro, influential cider writer (Cider Explorer) Natalia Wszelaki, historian, writer and maker at Kertelreiter Cider & Perry Barry Masterson, cidermaker at Sodo Sidrinė Donatas Genys, and wine and cider scientist and consultant Yann Gilles.
Donatas Genys
Yann Gilles
Marco Manfrini
Barry Masterson
Adam Wells
Natalia Wszelaki
“The response to the exam was amazing,” shares the ACA’s CEO Michelle McGrath, “and to have such a distinguished group now part of the growing global CCP community is a testament to the CCP program’s role in supporting the growth of cider within the larger beverage category. It is a rigorous exam, and you could tell that all who sat for it had taken their studies seriously though they are all already playing significant roles in the cider industry. We are so grateful to Christine Isensee-Kiseau, Michael Stöckl, and the whole Cider World Frankfurt team for partnering with the ACA to make this exam happen and hope we can do it again next year.”
Education and certification programs such as those run by Cicerone, the Wine and Spirits Education Trust, and the Court of Master Sommeliers, have done much to increase the understanding of the beverages they cover and enhance the professional standing of the individuals that complete them. With its CCP program, the ACA is poised to do the same for cider, raising the drink’s profile within the larger hospitality community as cider’s share of the global beverage market continues its steady growth. Continuing education is an important part of staying relevant in a rapidly changing hospitality environment.
For more information about the CCP program contact Education Operations Manager Jennie Dorsey at jennie@ciderassociation.org or visit the ACA website at www.ciderassociation.org. For information about CCP classes in Europe, contact European CCP representative Gabe Cook at gabe@ciderassociation.org.
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Press Release: ACA Reaches 100 Certified Pommeliers Following New York Exam
The American Cider Association is thrilled to announce that 100 individuals have now attained the prestigious Certified Pommelier designation following the exam held at ACA member cidery Wölffer Estate in Sagaponack, New York on April 18. This benchmark is meaningful for the Certified Pommelier program because the exam is rigorous with robust theory and sensory evaluation sections . The new Certified Pommeliers are Hannah Keggins, Cidermaker at Westwind Orchard, Alicia Pelkey, Cidermaker at Red Apple Farm, and Charlee Oddo, Cider Expert at Ancona’s Wines & Liquor.
Hannah Keggins
Alicia Pelkey
Charlee Oddo
“We are beyond excited to celebrate that we now have 100 Certified Pommeliers. To see the dedication of so many in the beverage community equip themselves with advanced skills to guide consumers through the wide variety of ciders available is truly inspiring,” comments ACA CEO Michelle McGrath.
Early on, the American Cider Association recognized the need to promote specialized knowledge about the cider category. Most food and beverage certification programs cover cider in a cursory manner or not at all. With cider being a beautifully nuanced beverage with a diverse set of elements often not known by culinary and hospitality professionals, the establishment of the Certified Cider Professional (CCP) program in 2016 was a strategic maneuver to educate professional audiences.
Today, the CCP program is educating 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.
“We know that consumers respond to engaged servers, and that confident recommendations go a long way in influencing their purchase decision. Our theory of change is that cider enthusiasm is contagious–CCP is how we keep the flame growing,” adds McGrath.
Certified Cider Professional Program Benchmarks as of May 21, 2024:
- Number of Level 1 Certified Cider Guides: 2,602
- Number of States with Certified Cider Guides: 49 including DC
- Number of Countries with Certified Cider Guides: 20
- Number of Level 2 Certified Pommeliers: 100
- Certified Pommeliers Around the World: United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, Italy, New Zealand and the UK
More about the Certified Cider Professional Program and Upcoming Opportunities
The CCP program begins with a Certified Cider Guide (CCG) Level 1 certification to help industry professionals develop a fundamental understanding of cider. The Certified Pommelier (CP) Level 2 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:
- July 23: Bellingham, WA
- August 20: Minneapolis, MN
- October 8: Austin, TX
- February 5, 2025: CiderCon® 2025 Chicago
In addition, there is a live sensory analysis webinar scheduled for June 27 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM Pacific featuring Brooklyn Cider House. Those interested in attending can find all the details on the ACA website. Taking advantage of sensory analysis webinars is highly encouraged for those interested in taking the Certified Pommelier exam.
Contact the ACA’s Education Operations Manager 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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May 30: Navigating Trends: Insights Into Wine & Spirits for Cidermakers
Join us for an exclusive webinar hosted by 3 Tier Beverages consultants Julia Lechleiter and Mary Mills, in collaboration with the American Cider Association. We will explore Wine and Spirit trends and the possible intersection with Cider.
As the BevAlc industry continues to evolve, it’s crucial for Cider producers to stay informed to be able to adapt to shifting consumer preferences. In this insightful session, industry experts will explore key trends, innovations, and consumer behaviors that are shaping the Wine and Spirits landscape provided through NIQ Scan and Consumer Panel Data.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the cider industry, this webinar offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and stay ahead of the curve.
About the Speakers:
Mary Mills
Mary Mills joined 3 Tier Beverages in 2022 from NielsenIQ, where she spent 14 years across client management, business development, and innovation insights. She has experience working with various clients in the food, beverage, and consumer goods industries, with 9 years focused on alcohol specifically. She holds a Marketing degree from The Ohio State University and is an avid Buckeye fan. She resides in Columbus, Ohio with her husband Andy and two children, Luke and Ava.
Julia Lechleiter
Julia Lechleiter started out her career at 84.51 on their Insights team where she supported emerging CPG brands in leveraging Kroger household data to guide customer-focused assortment, promotion, innovation and digital strategies. After supporting clients on numerous new item presentations and being exposed to the power of BASES innovation research, she joined NIQ on the BASES BevAl team. While she learned to love the BevAl industry, she missed working in a data platform to support clients run various analyses, specifically those related to retailer relations which led her to 3 Tier. Julia graduated from Miami University with a degree in Marketing, and lives in Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband. They have a 1-year old son, John, and two cocker spaniels, Bailey and Phil.
June 17: Sensory Analysis Workshop at Bivouac Ciderworks
Interested in learning how to taste cider like a pro? The American Cider Association is proud to announce that we will be teaming up with Bivouac Cider to host a cider sensory workshop. Join us Monday, June 17 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Adventure Lodge, 3980 30th Street, San Diego, CA 92104 for an in person workshop.
Over the course of 2 hours, an expert Certified Pommelier will lead you on a guided tasting through two ciders and a food pairing. This hands on workshop will teach you the professional tips and tricks for understanding the elements of local and national ciders. Come sip, swirl, and savor delicious ciders! Perfect for cider lovers at any level
Cost: $40
Agenda:
- 5:30 PM: Doors open
- 6:00 PM: Cider sensory analysis workshop begins.
- 8:00 PM: Networking
Must be 21 or over to attend.
Are you an ACA member? Click here to access the member exclusive discount code in our Resource Hub.
June 27: Live Sensory Analysis Webinar with Brooklyn Cider House
You’re invited to a Live Sensory Analysis webinar on Thursday, June 27th, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM Pacific!
Join our Certified Pommelier panel as they guide you through an immersive sensory experience featuring cider from Brooklyn Cider House in New York.
During this live practice session, you’ll learn how to analyze and appreciate cider like a pro and prep for your Certified Pommelier exam.
Not able to make it to the live event? No worries! The webinar will be recorded and available for you rewatch at any time with your initial purchase.
Cider must be purchased separately. Please be aware that it may take several days to receive your cider order, so we encourage you to purchase your ciders as soon as possible. Also, please verify that cider can be sent to your state before purchasing ciders. Ciders can be purchased from Brooklyn Cider House by clicking here. Use code “CP2024” at checkout to receive $2 off the bundle price.
Cost for the webinar is $30 for non-members and $20 for ACA members. Are you an ACA member? You can find your discount code in the Resource Hub.
Once registered, you will receive a confirmation email. This email is a placeholder for the event. The evening before the event you will receive an email with a Zoom link to the webinar. Please note this link will be sent to the registered email.
USA Featured as Guests of Honor at CiderWorld in Germany
Darlene Hayes Recognized for Her Efforts to Develop the Category
The 16th annual CiderWorld took place in Frankfurt, Germany last week. The combined competition, celebration, and cider expo welcomed the United States as the Guest Country of Honor this year. In addition, the ACA was able to partner with CiderWorld to offer the first Level 1 Certified Cider Guide Workshop & Certification and the first Certified Pommelier Exam in Europe.
CiderWorld’s expo was held at the Palmengarten and featured over 100 exhibitors from 17 countries who shared their cider with attendees.The American Cider Association joined member cideries ANXO and Vander Mill at the USA’s spotlight booth. The ACA also poured cider from Alpenfire Cider, Bauman’s Cider, Metal House Cider, Raging Cider & Mead and Tanuki Cider, highlighting the diversity and range of American Cider to German consumers.
“Many of the visitors to our cider booth were shocked to hear about the size of the American cider industry and taste the quality of some of the ciders made there. It was an incredible experience to share these ciders with German consumers who drink a lot more cider than the average American,” reflected Michelle McGrath, CEO of ACA.
Every year at CiderWorld an individual is recognized as the Cider Star of the Year. The ACA is thrilled to announce that this year the honor went to Darlene Hayes, ACA Educational Content Manager. Darlene was recognized for her efforts to raise awareness of the cider industry around the world, her research into the history and roots of cider in the U.S., and for her work with other cider specialists to develop a consensus on knowledge and standards.
“Darlene Hayes’ extensive knowledge of science and law, as well as her exceptional palate, make her the ideal partner when it comes to the growth and development of the cider industry,” says Michael Stöckl, Managing Director of CiderWorld.
Norman Thatcher Scharpf, U.S. Consul General, joined the CiderWorld award ceremony to meet U.S. cider producers and celebrate the U.S. being the guest country of honor. He formally addressed the audience with remarks on the growth and significance of the U.S. cider market.
Frankfurt and the Hessen region are steeped in centuries of cider culture that have not only persevered but flourished, symbolizing a cherished heritage and a testament to the region’s love for its local produce and traditional crafts. Known locally as “Apfelwein” in German, this cider has been a staple of Hessen culture, deeply ingrained in the social fabric of the region. The art of cidermaking in Hesse evolved from the abundant apple orchards dotting the countryside, with families passing down time-honored recipes from generation to generation. Frankfurt, in particular, emerged as a hub for cider production and consumption, giving rise to cozy “Apfelweinwirtschaften” (apple wine taverns) where locals and visitors alike can gather to enjoy local cider.
It was a great honor to participate in the CiderWorld competition and expo. The ACA hopes that more U.S. cideries will enter the CiderWorld competition in the future.
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Meet Your Board Member: Josie Mielke
Josie Mielke is the co-owner and operations manager at Urban Orchard Cider Company in Asheville, North Carolina. She was elected to the ACA board of directors in January 2024 to an At Large Seat.
Tell us about your cidery/farm/orchard
Urban Orchard Cider Company is family owned and operated by a crew of passionate and fun-loving cider nerds. We source ALL of our apples from North Carolina, and utilize multiple yeast strains to craft a diverse offering of cider flavor and aromatic profiles. Our current collection of recipes contains over 80 innovative and creative ciders, utilizing fruits, vegetables, spices, herbs, flowers, and hot peppers. All of our ciders are aged a minimum of six months, to allow for natural clarification, and the maturation of natural flavors and aromas.
How did you get into cider?
Like a lot of people I am gluten intolerant. I had dabbled in cidermaking because I went gluten free in 2006 and could not find a cider that I enjoyed. Unfortunately, at that time there was not a lot of selection and I found that they were all too sweet for me. At the same time I had moved back to Asheville and was having a very hard time finding employment due to the recession and Asheville being a service based city. Our family had discussed starting a business after the recession and with the craft beer boom and the accessibility of apples in our area this seemed like the perfect fit. 11 years later, we’re still here, and sometimes I really can’t remember how it all happened. Small business is a whirlwind.
Why did you decide to run for a position on the board?
The pandemic had a big impact on my view of community. Pre-Covid I felt like an isolationist. I kept my head down and plowed through, focused solely on our business operations. Post-Covid and now 11 years in the industry I have a more holistic view of what we can accomplish together. A thriving cider industry is good for all of us. I would be lying if I also didn’t mention that I was getting a little stagnant in my position. The opportunity to branch out of my daily routine and make an impact invigorates me. As a political science and history double major there really is nothing more exciting than dropping a bill in Congress and trying to get it passed. I can’t wait to witness and be a part of the process for the Bubble Bill.
What are your hopes for the future of the US Cider Industry?
I’d like to see cider valued for the artful product that it is. The entire industry has been working for a long time to overcome stereotypes about our category. The fact is that the US is producing some fantastic cider and I think that the public is finally catching on that cider is a versatile, creative and sophisticated beverage. Not to mention it tastes damn good.
How do you describe your cider region?
The South is full of old generational apple farms. Many of which in our area used to grow for Gerber. Urban Orchard has made it a point to always buy local, and now it’s as important as ever. Asheville is booming and the housing market is hungry for land. Many farms are considering sales to real estate developers and farming is a tough gig. Now that Gerber is gone, cider is stepping in as a value added product for growers. While the majority of our fruit is dessert and eating apples, we think that you can craft fantastic cider from blending the variety of cultivars which provide some lovely acids and great sugar content.
What’s your favorite apple to work with and why?
I don’t really have a favorite apple. While the apple is always the star in Urban Orchard products, I really enjoy experimentation with complementary fruits, herbs, vegetables, hot peppers, etc. That may set me apart from a lot of producers as I am not a traditionalist, but my passion comes from a culinary inquisitiveness and it’s the most fun aspect of the business to me.
What is your favorite cider/food pairing?
Ginger infused cider and sushi (yum). Really any nice cider with spicy Asian food is delicious. Cider and ice cream is also very tasty.
What is your favorite nature/cider pairing?
Cider on the beach baby! A better beverage has never been made for a hot day in the sun.
What would you like our members to know about you that they might not know? –non-cider related!
Traveling is my passion, as well as staying fit by challenging myself at the gym, outdoor activities, dancing and yoga. I have two energetic Airedales and a blind little poodle who keep me on my toes. I recently became a certified scuba diver and went to Norway to swim with Orcas! I also do volunteer work such as working the polls during elections, planning fundraisers for food security, and assisting with care for mistreated animals.