French and Japanese media highlight the awards won by Cidrerie du Pilat and Marukame Cider one month after the competition in Xixón.
LA SIDRA.- One month after the 16th International Hall of Gala Ciders (SISGA), awards presented in Xixón are still attracting attention beyond Asturias. Two recent reports from France and Japan highlight the achievements of producers in their regions and show how the competition continues to generate international coverage after the event.
Four medals for Cidrerie du Pilat
On 24 October, French newspaper Le Progrès reported on Cidrerie du Pilat‘s four medals. The official SISGA results confirm Silver for Mistelle du Pilat in cider liqueur and three Bronzes: Cidre from desire and Gold and roses in naturally carbonated brut sparkling cider, and Extra Ordinaire 2025 in semi-dry perry.
The French report shows how an Asturias-based competition can generate coverage in another country’s mainstream business press.
A SISGA Gold makes Japanese news
On 26 October, Iida Keizai Shimbun reported on the Gold awarded to Marukame Cider Sweet, made by Marukame Cider in Matsukawa, Nagano, in the naturally carbonated sweet sparkling cider category. It was the producer’s first entry. The article says the certificate arrived on 17 October.
The family fruit farm dates back more than 80 years, while its dedicated cidery opened in 2019. The award-winning drink uses estate-grown Fuji, Ōrin, Granny Smith and Pink Lady apples. The Japanese coverage emphasizes blind judging and the international recognition of the producer’s work.
SISGA’s reach continues beyond the awards ceremony
SISGA 2026, held in Xixón on 24–27 September, brought together 346 products from 124 cider producers across 35 countries and territories. Blind tasting offers recognition to products from diverse cider-making traditions.
The reports from France and Japan provide two documented examples of independent international media coverage, distinct from producers’ own announcements. They illustrate how the awards continue to generate interest weeks after the competition, helping raise the profile of Xixón and Asturias within the international cider community.
