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,” said [Insert ACA spokesperson name and title]. “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.

Posted in CCP and tagged , , ,

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
Posted in CCP and tagged , , ,

October is National Cider Month: ACA is a Supporting Partner

By Woodley Smith | September 3, 2025 |

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!

National Cider Month Website
Posted in Pick Cider and tagged ,

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.

Posted in CCP, Certified Pommelier and tagged , , ,

BREAKING NEWS! Bubble Tax Modernization Act Reintroduced in Congress!

By Jenn Root Martell | July 23, 2025 |

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.

Posted in Advocacy and tagged ,

“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.

Posted in CCP and tagged , , , ,

ACA Members Scoop Up Multiple Awards from Northwest Cider Cup and Cidercraft Magazine Awards

By Woodley Smith | July 8, 2025 |

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

Cidercraft Magazine Awards

Posted in Awards and tagged ,

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 , , ,

Calling All Creators: Showcase Your Work at CiderCon® 2026’s New Artisan Marketplace!

By Woodley Smith | June 23, 2025 |

Get ready to connect with cider lovers and art enthusiasts alike! For the first time ever, CiderCon® 2026 is opening the doors to artists, jewelers, and makers of all kinds with a dedicated Artisan Marketplace—a new feature within our renowned international trade show. 

Whether you craft cider-inspired illustrations, forge one-of-a-kind jewelry, design textiles, create handmade soaps, or dabble in any form of artisan goods, this is your chance to showcase your work at the largest professional cider gathering in the world.

Why the Artisan Marketplace?

Cider is more than a beverage—it’s a culture. A lifestyle. An intersection of tradition, craft, storytelling, and creativity. The cider community is passionate, curious, and deeply appreciative of handmade quality—and that makes CiderCon® the perfect space to share your work with a fresh, enthusiastic audience.

This marketplace isn’t just about selling—it’s about sharing your story with hundreds of attendees who value artistry, small business, and the spirit of creation.

What You Can Expect:
  • A vibrant, dedicated artist zone within the CiderCon® 2026 trade show floor
  • Access to engaged cider professionals, makers, and fans from across the world
  • The opportunity to network with industry leaders, fellow creatives, and future collaborators
  • Inclusion in the official CiderCon® 2026 program and online vendor directory
  • A curated space designed to celebrate your craft—whether it’s visual, wearable, or wildly unique
Who Should Apply?

We’re seeking a diverse lineup of vendors whose work reflects craftsmanship, originality, and heart.

Think:

  • Handmade jewelry
  • Printmaking and posters
  • Illustration and fine art
  • Pottery and ceramics
  • Textile and fiber arts
  • Woodworking
  • Soap and body care products
  • Upcycled or sustainable goods
  • Cider-themed or locally inspired items
  • And more!

Whether you’re a full-time maker or an emerging artisan looking for your next big opportunity, the CiderCon® Artisan Marketplace is your stage.

Event Details:

CiderCon® 2026 Trade Show
Providence, RI — February 4-5, 2026
 Artisan Marketplace open during trade show hours
Vendor spots are limited and curated—apply early to be considered!

How to Apply:

Applications open June 23, 2025 and close January 1, 2026. Click here to apply.

Vendor fees are kept intentionally accessible to support small businesses, artists, and emerging creatives.

Apply Now
Posted in CiderCon and tagged ,

ACA Introduces Preferred Vendor Program

By Monica Cohen | June 4, 2025 |

At the ACA, we know your bottom line matters and that you do better when the businesses you work with do better for you. That’s why we’re excited to launch the ACA Preferred Vendor Program: a growing lineup of businesses offering exclusive discounts for ACA members.

How It Works

We’ve done the legwork—negotiating deals with suppliers who want to support cidermakers like you with real savings on products and services you already use (or might want to use). Take advantage of our Preferred Vendor Program to enjoy:

  • Exclusive discounts for ACA members
  • Suppliers who understand your business
  • Opportunities to save on tools, services, and materials

Newly Added Discounts:

  • 25% Off Your First Year of Beer30
  • Free Consultation & 10% Off Flat Fee Projects from Beer Law Center
  • 10% Discount for all Classes & Workshops from the Cider Institute
  • One Free Job Posting Per Year from Ciderpros.com
  • 5% Off from Fountain City Logistics
  • 5%-10% Off First Shipment from MyFreightWorld
  • 10% Off First Design Project from Seathirst Creative
  • 50% Off Annual Subscription from Sightlines
  • 1/2 Off Setup and First Month Free from Tapwyse
  • Savings of $3.00/case on Regulatory Fees from Vinoshipper
  • 10% Off Orders from Wine Shipping Boxes

Check them all out on our Preferred Vendors Page and find links and codes for their exclusive deals for ACA members in the Resource Hub.

Becoming a Preferred Vendor

If you know a great company that supports your work and might be a good fit send them our way! Better yet, if you are a business that wants to participate, fill out this FORM and let us know. We’d be glad to bring you into the fold to pass benefits on to the whole cider community. If you have questions, feel free to reach out to our Director of Member Relations Woodley Smith at woodley@ciderassociation.org.

Posted in Uncategorized and tagged ,