The Cider Institute, the leading nonprofit advancing the science and craft of cider production, is proud to announce the first UK offering of its flagship cidermaking course, Cider & Perry Production – A Foundation. Scheduled for March, 16-20, 2026, this hands-on, immersive program will take place at NIAB in East Malling, giving cider producers a unique opportunity to expand their skills and knowledge.
Designed for both seasoned producers and aspiring cidermakers, the training offers comprehensive, science-based instruction in juice chemistry, fermentation, blending, packaging, lab analysis, sensory evaluation, and quality control. Participants gain practical skills directly from internationally recognized instructors, combining rigorous scientific principles with real-world applications that can immediately enhance production and product quality.
This UK launch represents a major milestone for the Cider Institute, which recently rebranded to reflect its growing international reach and impact. Formerly known as the Cider Institute of North America (CINA), the organization has trained nearly 2,000 cidermakers across 44 U.S. states, eight provinces, and 28 countries, establishing a reputation for high-quality, practical education that blends science and craft.
“Offering this course in the UK gives more producers direct access to the expert, hands-on training that has supported cidermakers around the world since 2016,” said Executive Director Brighid O’Keane.
The program also fills a notable gap in the international cider education landscape following the retirement of industry veteran Peter Mitchell of the UK Cider & Perry Academy. By providing structured, professional-level training, the Cider Institute equips the next generation of cidermakers with the tools to maintain and elevate cider quality.
Participants in this course are candidates for the industry-recognized Foundation Certificate in Cider & Perry Production. “This course is essential for current producers and those entering professional cidermaking. The instructors offer engaging, practical content in a welcoming environment,” said Joey Courchesne, Certified Cidermaker and Head Cidermaker at Annapolis Cider Company in Nova Scotia.
The Cider Institute’s programs are distinguished by their combination of scientific rigor and hands-on learning, developed through years of collaboration with academic experts and industry leaders. This first UK offering continues the Institute’s mission to foster excellence, innovation, and sustainability in cider production worldwide.
Course Details:
- Dates: March 16-20, 2026
- Location: NIAB at East Malling, with cidery tours around Kent, UK
- Format: Five-day immersive, hands-on cider production training
- Agenda and registration: Early-bird rates through 31 December https://buytickets.at/ciderinstitute/1927070
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