Cider Australia is busily brewing up the best mix of cider, food and entertainment to ensure that the Australian Cider Festival on October 11-12 is the biggest and best yet.
More than 1,500 people are expected at the event, which for the first time will be held in Melbourne, at Ormond Hall at The Village.
The weekend celebration will be a relaxed affair to follow on from the industry’s major awards ceremony on the Friday night.
The festival will feature up to 30 stalls with dozens of cider and perry styles to sample from producers including; Batlow Cider, Bilpin Cider, Cheeky Rascal Ciders, Endless Cider, Flying Brick Cider, Frank’s Cider, Hazeldean Forest Farm, Hillbilly Cider, Hills Cider, LOBO Cider, Mock Red Hill, Napoleone Cider, Small Acres Cyder, Spreyton Cider Co, Too Many Chiefs and Willie Smith’s Organic Cider.
“We are excited about showcasing Melburnians some of the best and most unique ciders from across the country,” said Cider Australia president Sam Reid.
“Our industry has enjoyed rapid growth in recent years and as a result we have expanded our awards program and we are growing the festival element to ensure we keep a spotlight on our fantastic, locally-made products.
“And, at the end of the day, who needs an excuse to sit back in the spring sunshine and sip on a few ciders!”
Festival goers can make their way to The Village Melbourne Brasserie for live entertainment and cider-matched food offerings, including pork belly sliders with apple relish cider and pan-seared scallops with pork belly.
Entry is from 1pm at the earlybird price of $20 per day or $25 at the door and includes 20 x 50ml complimentary tastings, a program and tasting notes and a tasting glass. For tickets, click here.