Media Release

Annual Awards Program Launched by Cider Australia

Entries are now open for the Australian Cider Awards, which will be held in Orange, NSW on Wednesday, October 9.

Cider and perry makers have 14 award categories to choose from, with an expected 150-plus entries to be judged by US cider expert Gary Awdey and Australian connoisseurs Max Allen and Neil Cameron.

Cider Australia president James Kendell said the awards were growing in stature and importance.

“As a growing number of drinkers across the country embrace cider as an alternative to wine and beer, it is important for Cider Australia to recognise the best of the best,’’ Mr Kendell said.

Mr Kendell said it was exciting to have Mr Awdey come to Australia to join the renowned judging panel.

“The Australian cider sector is enjoying remarkable growth and the awards are a great chance for producers – both small and large – to show off their product to an internationally-acclaimed cider expert in Mr Awdey,’’ Mr Kendell said.

“He is president of the US Great Lakes Cider & Perry Association, has been judging cider in international competitions since 2004 and his ciders have taken several notable awards in international competitions in the US, England and Australia.’’

Entries for the Australian Cider Awards close on September 24. For more details and entry forms, please visit www.cideraustralia.org.au or www.cideroz.com.au.

Winners of each category will be announced at an Awards Presentation Dinner, on Friday October 18th at the Sebel Hotel in Surry Hills. Tickets cost $120 and include a five course meal matched with award winning ciders. They’re available via the Cider Oz website.

The event will kick-off a weekend of cider celebrations, with Australia’s biggest cider festival being planned for Saturday and Sunday at Sydney’s iconic Hotel Steyne in Manly.