The North-West Cider Association With Emily Ritchie

Fresh Pressed

Welcome to Fresh Pressed! In this episode, host Nathan Riddell engages in a captivating conversation with Emily Ritchie, the executive director of the Northwest Cider Association. Join them as they dive into the world of cider and explore the thriving cider industry in the Pacific Northwest. Emily shares her journey, from promoting healthy eating to discovering her passion for cider during a transformative trip to Europe. Together, Nathan and Emily shed light on the unique characteristics of Northwest ciders, discussing the diverse flavours, styles, and techniques that make them truly exceptional. They also emphasize the importance of collaboration within the industry and the efforts being made to elevate cider culture and support local cider makers. The conversation explores the increasing availability of cider in the market and the growing interest in cider-making. The Northwest region offers cider makers the freedom to experiment with different ingredients and styles, contributing to the versatility of the beverage and making it more accessible to consumers. Furthermore, Nathan and Emily discuss the need for a clear and standardized language to describe cider and its various styles, similar to the beer industry's established terminology. The Northwest Cider Association is actively working on developing a lexicon and language around cider, aiming to foster a common understanding among consumers and industry professionals, thereby facilitating the growth of the cider industry. The Northwest Cider Cup, a prestigious cider competition organized by the association, also takes center stage in the discussion. This competition serves as a platform for cider makers to showcase their craft, receive valuable feedback, and strive for excellence. With a rigorous judging process led by trained experts evaluating flavour profiles and other criteria, the Northwest Cider Cup celebrates the artistry and innovation within the cider community. Education and consumer awareness play vital roles in the cider industry, and Nathan and Emily highlight initiatives like the Northwest Cider Association's website and map. These resources empower consumers to discover and explore the multitude of cider producers in the region, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft. They also mention exciting upcoming industry events, including the highly anticipated CiderCon, which will be hosted in the Northwest region after several years, as well as the special edition of Oregon Cider Week coinciding with the event. Join host Nathan Riddell and special guest Emily Ritchie on this enlightening episode of Fresh Pressed. Immerse yourself in the world of cider, learn about the passion driving the cider industry in the Pacific Northwest, and discover how it continues to evolve and thrive. The NW Cider Association website: https://www.nwcider.com/ The NW Cider Association Map: https://www.nwcider.com/map/

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