Germany’s financial capital became one of the world centres of cider culture this month with the celebration of the Cider World Awards 2026, one of the best-known international competitions in the sector. The gala, held in Frankfurt, brought together producers from two continents and once again confirmed the creative strength of a drink that is becoming increasingly diverse and appreciated.
This year’s edition featured more than 100 products made by over 50 producers from 14 countries.
One of the main novelties this year was the introduction of the “Sparkling Perry” category, dedicated to sparkling pear-based products. The organisers highlighted their intention to give greater visibility to this type of product, which is currently enjoying growing international recognition.
The gala was hosted by British cider communicator Gabe Cook, one of the best-known figures in the cider world, and also served to recognise the career of Haritz Rodriguez, chosen as Cider Star of the Year 2026 for his work promoting Basque cider culture and connections between producing regions.
The award-winning products and the rest of the participants were later showcased at the Cider World Expo, open to hospitality professionals, distributors and the general public. The event is thus consolidating itself as one of the world showcases for contemporary cider, where tradition, innovation and new styles coexist.
The 2026 edition once again showed that cider is a global drink in full evolution, with both traditional producing countries and new cider regions committed to quality and character.
An international stage in which Asturian cider, with its deep tradition and high standards, has much to say. However, Asturias was once again the great absentee, with only one product entered in the competition and exhibition: Sidra de Xelu La Comuña, a homemade product that won a gold award for its quality.
Best of their category awards:
In the Still Ciders category, the prize went to RedLove Mausser Most, from Styria (Austria).
In the Sparkling Ciders category, the winner was Trell Sandalen Gard, from Norway.
In the new Sparkling Perry category, the winner was Birnensecco 2024, from Gutshof Kraatz, Brandenburg (Germany).
In the Mixed & Flavoured category, the top recognition went to Wilder Cider – MainSchmecker Franken, from Germany.
In the Dessert & Fortified category, the prize went to Elodie Ice Cider, from Eiane Gard (Norway).
In the Non-Alcoholic category, the winner was Classic Rocco Sparkling Rocco, from South Tyrol (Italy)
