In the world of craft beverages, few movements have seen the kind of rapid growth that the craft cider industry has experienced in California over the past decade. From humble beginnings to becoming a rising star in the world of artisan drinks, craft cider has firmly established itself as a significant player in the state’s vibrant beverage culture. The 2024 California Cider Festival, held on April 13, 2024, at the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, was a celebration of this transformation, bringing together cider enthusiasts, producers, and experts for an event that highlighted California’s burgeoning cider industry.
The festival, organized by the California Cider Association (CCA), was a showcase of the best the state has to offer in terms of local cider production, innovative flavors, and sustainability. With over 100 cideries in attendance, the festival featured tastings, educational workshops, and expert panels that explored the growing importance of craft cider in California’s agricultural and beverage landscapes.
The Rise of California Craft Cider
While the world has long associated apple orchards with the Northeast and Pacific Northwest, California’s diverse climate and agriculture have made it an ideal environment for cider production. The state’s abundant apple orchards, combined with a growing interest in locally produced beverages, have paved the way for a surge in small, independent cideries.
The 2024 festival illustrated just how far California’s cider industry has come. The event attracted more than 5,000 attendees, including industry professionals, retailers, and cider aficionados. As the crowd sipped and savored offerings from established cider brands like Ace Cider and J.K.’s Scrumpy, newcomers to the market were eager to share their latest creations, adding to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.
Key Players and Notable Moments
The festival’s main draw was, of course, the cider. But it was the incredible variety of local craft ciders that stole the show. From dry ciders to sweet blends, hard ciders infused with herbs and spices to ciders aged in wine barrels, California’s cider makers showed that there is no shortage of creativity in the industry. Here are some of the standout moments:
The Innovation of Dry Ciders:
One of the highlights of the festival was the rise of dry ciders, which have gained significant popularity among cider lovers who prefer a less sugary taste. Sierra Nevada’s entry into the dry cider market was particularly well received, with their Ciderworks Dry being hailed as a standout. Made with California apples and a blend of other locally sourced fruits, this dry cider exemplified the region’s ability to produce beverages that appeal to the craft beer drinker looking for something new and refreshing.
Sustainability and Organic Practices:
California cider makers have also placed a strong emphasis on sustainability. Many of the ciders showcased at the festival were made using organic apples, and several brands were recognized for their commitment to eco-friendly production methods. One such cider producer, Redwood Empire Cider Company, is known for its efforts to minimize water use in production, use solar power, and prioritize sustainable farming practices in its orchards.
David Keller, the founder of Keller’s Cider in Mendocino County, gave a passionate talk during the festival about the future of sustainable cider making. “We’re not just creating a product,” Keller said, “we’re cultivating a community. We’re sourcing our apples locally, working with farmers who are focused on regenerative agriculture, and giving back to the land that provides for us.”
A Focus on Heritage Varieties:
Another exciting trend at the festival was the rise of heritage apple varieties used in cider making. While many cideries continue to use standard apples like Gravenstein and Fuji, others are experimenting with old-world varieties that were once grown exclusively in Europe. The Orchard Project from the Sonoma Valley has been instrumental in cultivating these unique apples, using them to create distinctive, complex ciders that pay homage to centuries-old cider-making traditions.
Cider Pairings and Food Experiences:
The festival also embraced the growing trend of food pairings. Local chefs showcased how craft cider could pair with everything from cheeses and charcuterie to fresh produce and barbecued meats. One notable collaboration was with Sonoma’s Sienna Restaurant, which crafted a special menu to pair with the cider offerings at the festival. The pairing of dry ciders with grilled fish tacos and herbed goat cheese was a fan favorite, showing that cider is not only versatile in taste but also a fantastic complement to a variety of cuisines.
The Lasting Impact: Craft Cider’s Role in California’s Agricultural Landscape
California’s cider industry has experienced rapid growth, and the 2024 California Cider Festival underscored how deeply integrated the movement is with the state’s agricultural heritage. While the region’s wine industry is globally renowned, cider is quickly catching up as a significant agricultural and commercial product. As more people turn to local, sustainable beverages, craft cider is poised to become an integral part of California’s food and beverage culture.
The impact of the 2024 festival is twofold: it raised awareness about California cider as a legitimate craft product, and it reinforced the state’s role as a leader in sustainable agriculture. As more consumers seek out local, ethically produced drinks, the craft cider scene will continue to thrive, bringing together the best of California’s natural resources and the creativity of its producers.
Behind the Scenes: The Collaborations That Drive the Industry
The success of the California Cider Festival would not have been possible without the contributions of the many individuals and organizations behind the event. The California Cider Association (CCA), which was instrumental in organizing the festival, played a key role in bringing together cideries, farmers, and consumers. Founded in 2010, the CCA has been crucial in advocating for cider legislation in California and promoting the state’s cider industry on a national and international stage.
Sally Knight, executive director of the California Cider Association, shared her thoughts on the future of the industry: “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the evolution of cider here in California. We’ve gone from a handful of cideries to a thriving industry, and the festival is a chance to celebrate how far we’ve come.”
Conclusion: The Future of California Craft Cider
The 2024 California Cider Festival was more than just a celebration of craft cider—it was a glimpse into the future of the industry. With its focus on sustainability, innovation, and local sourcing, the festival demonstrated how California’s cider industry is rapidly becoming a major player in the global beverage market. As the demand for craft cider continues to rise, California cideries are positioned to lead the charge, creating unique and exciting ciders that appeal to a wide range of palates.
As the festival wrapped up, the message was clear: craft cider is here to stay, and California will continue to be at the heart of this exciting movement.
