NY Cider Shines at CiderCon 2025, Secures Prestigious Industry Honors

BEACON, New York - The NY Cider community made an impressive impact at CiderCon® 2025, the premier national conference for cider professionals, held from February 4-7 in Chicago, Illinois. From receiving top industry awards to delivering the Keynote address to hosting expert-led sessions to producing a NY Cider Pop-Up tasting showcase, NY Cider played a key role in shaping this year’s conference.

Leading the celebration, Scott Ramsey, Executive Director of the New York Cider Association, was honored with the Significant Impact on the Industry Award for his unwavering dedication to advancing the NY Cider industry, particularly through his advocacy of the recently passed Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) shipping legislation. This historic win expands market access for NY Cider producers and growers, marking a major milestone for the industry.

"In addition to having the opportunity to deliver the Keynote Address with our NY Liquor Authority Chair & Commissioner, Lily Fan, winning this award was an incredible honor! Most importantly, it’s a testament to the hard work and passion of the NY Cider community. As we celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the New York Cider Association, this recognition underscores how far this industry has come and the potential that lies ahead for NY Cider,” said Scott Ramsey, Executive Director of the New York Cider Association.

CiderCon®, organized annually by the American Cider Association, brings together over 850 cider industry professionals from 40 U.S. states and 13 countries. The annual event features nearly 40 educational sessions, tasting seminars, networking opportunities, and a bustling trade show. In addition to Ramsey’s win, there were additional NY Cider award winners:

Best Cider Retailer (East): Boutique Wines & Spirits – Fishkill, NY•
Best Cider Focused Establishment (East): Mullers Cider House – Rochester, NY
Member Appreciation Award: Nine Pin Cider Works – Albany, NY

NY Cider experts also played a crucial role in leading discussions at CiderCon® 2025, offering valuable insights on industry trends, sustainability, and cider-making techniques:

Autumn Stoscheck (Eve’s Cidery) explored traditional English cider apple varieties in the session, Porter’s Perfection: West of England to the PNW.
Chris Gerling (Cornell AgriTech) co-led a workshop on achieving balance in cider production.
Steve Selin (South Hill Cider) conducted an in-depth session on keeving techniques.
Richard Yi (Brooklyn Cider House) presented on natural cider production methodologies.
Adrian Luna-Verduga (NYCA’s Membership & Communications Coordinator & Hard Cider Guy) assisted in facilitating the Newcomer Networking Session, helping emerging cider professionals navigate the conference and forge meaningful industry connections.

Finally, one of the most anticipated events of the conference was the NY Cider Pop-Up 2025, a private industry gathering that showcased a curated selection of top NY Ciders. Made possible with the partnership and support of Angry Orchard, this exclusive tasting event offered attendees the opportunity to connect with NY Cider makers, distributors, and industry leaders while celebrating the strength and innovation of NY Cider.

The success of NY Cider at CiderCon® 2025 underscores the region’s leadership in cider craftsmanship, innovation, and advocacy. With growing recognition, expanding market opportunities, and a passionate cider-making community, New York continues to set the standard for excellence in the craft beverage industry.

About the New York Cider Association

Celebrating ten years, the New York Cider Association (NYCA) is dedicated to cultivating the NY Cider industry by elevating the quality, awareness, and accessibility of NY Cider. Representing a diverse network of cider makers, growers, and industry stakeholders, NYCA advocates for policies that support the industry, fosters education, and promotes cider as a premier craft beverage.

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