By Clyde Mooney – editor Australian Hotelier
Australia’s foremost cider celebration takes place next week at the Hotel Steyne in Manly.
An initiative of Cider Australia, president James Kendell said the primary purpose of the Australian Cider Festival is to increase consumer awareness and education about Australia’s growing cider industry.
”This event will be the largest of its kind in the country and will give the general public a chance to sample a wide range of quality ciders in one place,” Kendell said.
“It will appeal to cider enthusiasts, amateur cider-makers, craft beer and wine enthusiasts and Sydney-siders looking for a fun day out in the Spring sunshine.”
Taking place October 19 and 20 at Manly’s Hotel Steyne – home of one of the country’s first cider specialty bar, Moonshine – at least 25 stalls will showcase the best of local and international products.
“The Hotel Steyne is turning the taps to cider, keeping the beer on ice and teaming up with Cider Australia to host a little festival by the seaside,” says the Steyne’s general manager Ged Dore.
The festival follows the annual Australian Cider Awards, which has attracted over 140 entries and will take place on October 18 at the Sebel in Surry Hills.
The weekend party is expected to attract over 1,500 people, enjoying dozens of brands, paired with cider-matched gourmet food and a dynamic line-up of entertainment featuring street performances and family-friendly activities.
Confirmed cider brands appearing at the festival include Apple Thief, Australian Brewery, Batlow Cider, Bilpin Cider, Cheeky Rascal, Flying Brick Cider, Franklin Cider, Hillbilly Cider, Hills Cider, James Squire, Little Creatures, Lobo Cider, Lost Pippin Cider, Lucky Duck, Magners, Monteiths, Napoleone Cider, Old Mout, Sitting Ducks Cider, Small Acres Cyder, Stassen Cider, Sydney Cider, Tilse’s Apple Truck Cider, Westons Cider and Willie Smiths Organic Cider.