Several cider producers from Pennsylvania earned recognition during the recent Farm Show cider competition, highlighting the state’s growing cider industry. The awards were announced on January 6, 2024, with numerous cideries from across the state receiving accolades for their exceptional products.
Among the standout winners was Big Hill Ciderworks from Gardners, located in Adams County. Co-founder and owner Troy Lehman achieved remarkable success, securing first and third places in the Traditional Cider category, as well as third place in the Sour Cider category. Additionally, he claimed third place in the Fruit Cider – Sweet category, second place in the Wood Aged category, and second place in the Dessert Cider category. Big Hill Ciderworks, which opened in 2013, continues to make a significant impact in the region’s cider scene.
Another prominent winner from central Pennsylvania was Ploughman Cider, also based in Adams County. Owner Ben Wenk took home first place in the Sour Cider category and tied for third in the Wood Aged category, showcasing the quality and diversity of his offerings.
The competition also celebrated Caleb Wright from Armstrong Valley Vineyard & Winery in Dauphin County, who won first place in the Hopped Cider category. This recognition emphasizes the innovative approaches being adopted by local cideries in their craft.
The Farm Show featured a variety of cider categories, with winners across several classifications:
– Class 1: Modern Cider – Dry
– Class 2: Modern Cider – Sweet
– Class 3: Traditional Cider
– Class 4: Sour Cider
– Class 5: Fruit Cider – Dry
– Class 6: Fruit Cider – Sweet
– Class 7: Hopped Cider
– Class 8: Spiced Cider
– Class 9: Wood Aged Cider
– Class 10: Dessert Cider
Following the awards, many of the participating cideries will continue to engage with the public at the Farm Show. They will be pouring samples at Booth 1101 in the Main Hall East, near the Carousel. The sampling sessions begin at 10:00 a.m. and run until 21:00 throughout the week.
The schedule for the remainder of the week includes the following cideries:
– **Monday:** ANXO Cider, Armstrong Valley, Big Hill Ciderworks, Brother Monk Ciderworks, KingView
– **Tuesday:** ANXO Cider, Armstrong Valley, Big Hill Ciderworks, Brother Monk Ciderworks, Sheltered Valley Cider
– **Wednesday:** ANXO Cider, Armstrong Valley, Big Hill Ciderworks, KingView, Sheltered Valley Cider
– **Thursday:** ANXO Cider, Armstrong Valley, Brother Monk Ciderworks, KingView, Ploughman Cider
– **Friday and Saturday:** Brother Monk Ciderworks, Bucktail Cider Co., KingView, Manoff Market Cidery, Ploughman Cider
The recognition of these cideries not only celebrates their craftsmanship but also highlights the vibrant cider culture flourishing in Pennsylvania. As they showcase their products at the Farm Show, these producers continue to attract attention and appreciation for their dedication to quality and innovation in cider making.
