Cider Australia announced the winners of the 2019 Australian Cider Awards last Friday at a gala dinner in Melbourne.
Recognising excellence in cider production, the awards saw a field of 267 Australian and international entries across 24 classes. Judging was carried out by a panel of respected industry professionals including visiting guest judge, Tom Oliver from Oliver’s Cider & Perry in the UK and Jody Scott from Zeffer Cider in New Zealand.
After a record number of entries, a record number of gold medals were awarded this year, with 14 out of the 16 won by Australian producers. Within each class, bronze, silver and gold medals were awarded based on points achieved, with the highest score winning best in class and the category trophy.
Trophy winners were:
- Best in Show: Barossa Cider Co (pictured above) – Squashed Apple Cider
- Best New World Cider: Barossa Cider Co – Squashed Apple Cider
- Best Traditional Cider: Kangaroo Island Ciders – Colony Cove 2018 Draught Cider
- Best Perry: Small Acres Cyder – 2017 Sparkling Perry
- Best Intensified/Distilled Cider or Perry: William Smith & Sons – Charles Oates Distilling Apple Blanco
- Best Australian Cider or Perry: Barossa Cider Co – Squashed Apple Cider
- Best International Cider or Perry: Cester Camillo – Sidro del Bosco
- Most Successful Small Producer: Small Acres Cyder, New South Wales
- Most Successful Larger Producer: William Smith & Sons, Tasmania
Cider Australia also has a Champion of the Industry Award, which recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the Australian cider industry over a prolonged period of time. The 2019 recipient of this award was Dr Clive Crossley and partner Lynne Uptin OAM of Red Sails Cider in Tasmania.
President of Cider Australia, Sam Reid, said the pair’s passion for cider, commitment to quality and generosity in sharing their knowledge led to their selection for the award.
He said: “The strength of Clive and Lynne’s international networks and friendships has been important in shaping and influencing Australian cider.”
“They are an inspiration to many cider producers in Australia and overseas and show what is possible if you retain integrity and aim for the best.”
The full list of medal winners can be found at the Cider Australia website here.
