Posts Tagged ‘instalink’
American Cider Association Welcomes New Canadian Licensed Educator
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.
The 2025 Government Shutdown: What it Means for You
Because Congress has not yet passed a continuing resolution to fund the government, a federal shutdown is now in effect beginning October 1, 2025. For cideries, the most immediate impact comes from the significant reduction of 87% of staff at the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). The TTB will continue only essential functions. These include processing tax returns with payments, handling urgent legal matters, securing federal property, managing essential payroll and accounting, and continuing criminal enforcement. Most other services—such as label approvals, formula reviews, and permitting—are paused until funding is restored. In addition, the Small Business Administration (SBA) is also functioning at 23% of its workforce, focusing on existing loans and Emergency Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs).
Here’s what you need to know from the TTB:
- Label approvals are on hold. TTB will not review new Certificates of Label Approval (COLAs) during the shutdown. You can still submit applications, but they won’t be processed until funding resumes. Expect delays once staff return and begin working through the backlog.
- Formulas and permits are paused. If you need approval for a new formula, an ownership change, or a new location, those requests will sit in the queue as well. This can be especially disruptive for small and mid-sized cideries—the majority of U.S. producers—that often run on tight timelines and seasonal releases.
- Taxes and reports are still due. Even though most TTB staff are furloughed, cideries are still required to file operational reports and pay federal excise taxes on time. There may not be anyone available to answer questions until the government reopens, so it’s best to plan ahead.
- Expect a backlog. Once the shutdown ends, TTB will face a surge of pending applications. This could stretch timelines for weeks or months, especially for labels and formulas.
What you can do:
- Keep filing everything on time, even during the shutdown.
- Submit any pending labels or formulas now, so they’re in the system.
- Build extra time into your release schedules in case of delays.
- Communicate with distributors and partners about possible timing impacts.
Here’s what you need to know from the SBA:
- The SBA has halted processing new 7(a) and 504 loans, which are crucial for financing equipment, expansion, and working capital. This suspension affects all new loan applications, even those from lenders with delegated authority.
- While new loan processing is paused, the SBA continues to service existing loans. However, borrowers should expect longer processing times and slower assistance due to reduced staffing.
What you can do:
- Cideries relying on SBA loans for expansion, equipment upgrades, or working capital may face delays in accessing necessary funds
ACA will continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions—we’re here to help you navigate these disruptions. Contact ACA Government Affairs Manager Jenn Martell with questions.
Cider Industry’s Premiere Event Coming to Providence, Rhode Island February 2026
For Immediate Release
American Cider Association
Cider Industry’s Premiere Event Coming to Providence, Rhode Island February 2026
CiderCon® 2026 is coming to Providence, Rhode Island, bringing together cidermakers, industry leaders, and innovators from around the globe to learn, connect, and celebrate the craft of cider.
This year’s theme, “Crafting Cider’s Future Together,” celebrates the collaboration and creativity driving the industry forward. While other beverage alcohol categories have suffered, cider – especially regional craft ciders – has seen an increase in sales this year.
Open to cider suppliers, makers and enthusiasts, the event features interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking, while also offering attendees the opportunity to attend a variety of experiences from the fan-favorite Cider Share to regionally inspired cider tours, tastings and a large trade show.
Highlights of CiderCon® 2026
- Expanded General Session: An expanded general session will feature speakers from the cider industry and beyond and will share insights on market trends, sustainability, and innovation, paving the way for the future of cider.
- Sessions: A variety of sessions will cover topics such as cidermaking techniques and best practices, marketing strategies, cider’s terroir, business and compliance considerations, and the history and future of cider apples. The ACA is pleased to once again partner with the Cider Institute to develop the cider production sessions.
- Trade Show & Artisan Marketplace: Discover the latest products and services available to the cider industry in the Trade Show, sponsored by FruitSmart, showcasing innovations in equipment, packaging, and more. In addition, the inaugural Artisan Marketplace will feature makers eager to share their crafts with attendees.
- Networking Opportunities: There will be a plethora of networking events available, allowing attendees to connect with fellow professionals from every corner of the cider world, fostering relationships that can lead to future collaborations.
Exploring the Region
Four tours are scheduled to take place Monday, February 2, offering attendees the opportunity to get to know the region better. There will be a Connecticut cidery tour, a Rhode Island cidery tour, a tour of the Johnson & Wales University Culinary Museum, and a Prohibition in Providence drinking tour.
Registration Information
Registration for CiderCon® 2026 is now open. Early bird rates are available until November 3, 2025. Early bird rates are $479 for members and $875 for non-members. Rates will increase to $549 for members and $945 for non-members on November 3, 2025.
For more information, including the full schedule, speakers and registration details, please visit www.ciderassociation.org/cidercon2026.
About the American Cider Association:
The American Cider Association is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to supporting cidermakers and promoting the cider industry. Through education, advocacy, and community building, the ACA works to enhance the cider experience and ensure a vibrant future for all cider professionals.
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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.
ACA Partners with Brock University to Offer Certified Cider Guide™ Workshop in Canada
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.
October is National Cider Month: ACA is a Supporting Partner
National Cider Month is back for 2025! Founded by Schilling Cider in 2022, National Cider Month has grown into an industry-wide celebration of cider, cidermakers, and the apple harvest season. Held throughout October, this is a powerful opportunity to elevate the craft, connect with consumers, and shift perceptions about cider.
A number of cider companies have participated in a variety of ways in the last few years – from organizing promotions at the store shelf to drawing consumers into their tap rooms with special events. According to IRI data, cider sales saw a 5% lift during National Cider Month in its first year, highlighting the impact of coordinated consumer-facing promotion.
As we’re all about moving more cider, the American Cider Association is proud to be a supporting partner of National Cider Month. Leading up to – and throughout the month of October, we will be amplifying National Cider Month and member events as well as securing media coverage to help drive visibility and excitement for cider.
More than 160 cideries and counting have signed on to participate in National Cider Month. Once signed up you can access National Cider Month logos and other promotion materials as well as have your cidery and special events listed. Visit www.nationalcidermonth.com to learn more, register, and get involved. Scroll to the bottom and click Participate in NCM to start the sign up process.
Let’s work together to make sure it’s cider’s time!
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.
BREAKING NEWS! Bubble Tax Modernization Act Reintroduced in Congress!
The American Cider Association (ACA) is excited to share that the Bubble Tax Modernization Act was reintroduced in the House of Representatives as H.R. 4613 on July 22, 2025 by Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (D-OR-6) and Congressman Derrick Van Orden (R-WI-3), with original co-sponsorship from Congressman Mike Kelly (R-PA-16) and Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19). The full press release can be read here.
What Is the Bubble Tax Modernization Act?
While the “Bubble Bill” or “Bubble Tax Bill” does not alter the excise tax structure for fruited ciders, it takes an important step toward parity by aligning allowable carbonation levels with those permitted for wines and meads—raising the limit from 0.39 CO₂/100ml to 0.64 CO₂/100ml.
The ACA has been working to get this bill reintroduced for quite some time as this technical change would allow producers greater flexibility to craft a wider variety of carbonated ciders without triggering the burdensome “Bubble Tax”—which can add up to $3.40 per gallon.
Help Us Keep the Momentum Going!
Now that the Bubble Bill has been introduced in the House, our next step is to recruit champions in the Senate and work toward reintroduction there before the end of the fiscal year.
In the meantime, we need your help! Your Members of Congress need to hear from you so they can consider adding their support. Please use the link below to contact your Congressional Representatives and add your voice to this important industry effort:
👉Click here to email your representatives!
Thank you for helping spread the word and pushing for this critical change for the cider industry! Stay tuned for more advocacy updates and action alerts as the Bubble Bill moves through Congress. For questions, please reach out to Jenn Root Martell at jenn@ciderassociation.org.
“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.
ACA Members Scoop Up Multiple Awards from Northwest Cider Cup and Cidercraft Magazine Awards
Both the Northwest Cider Cup and Cidercraft Magazine recently announced award winners following their competitions and, once again, ACA members put on an excellent showing, garnering awards across every style category. Members bringing home awards from these prestigious competitions are:
Northwest Cider Cup
- 2 Towns Ciderhouse
- Alpenfire Cider
- Bauman’s Cider
- Blossom Barn Cidery
- Cockrell Cider Farm
- Empyrical Cider
- Endless Orchard
- Finnriver Farm & Cidery
- Greenwood Cider
- Kristof Farms
- Portland Cider Co.
- RAW Cider
- Rootwood Cider
- Schilling Cider
- Seattle Cider Co.
- Tieton Cider Works
- Click here for a complete listing of winners.
Cidercraft Magazine Awards
- 1911 Established
- 2 Towns Ciderhouse
- Alpenfire Cider
- Bauman’s Cider
- Brooklyn Cider House
- Champlain Orchards
- Ciderboys
- Endless Orchard
- Fenceline Cider
- Glacial Till Craft Cider
- Island Orchard Cider
- James Creek Cider House
- Kristof Farms
- Martinelli’s 1868 Hard Cider
- Mast Year Collective
- Portland Cider Co.
- Schilling Cider
- Seattle Cider Co.
- Sheltered Valley Cider
- Snow Capped Cider
- Snowbird Farm & Cidery
- Tieton Cider Works
- White Crow Cider Company
- Woodchuck Cider
- Yankee Cider Company
- Yonder Cider
- Click here for a complete listing of winners.