Still only in its first year of being available in Australia, Thatchers Gold has swept the board in the Australian Cider Awards.

Thatchers Gold was not only awarded Best Cider, and Best International Cider, but went on to receive the top accolade, Best in Show.

The Australian Cider Awards are organised by Cider Australia, the national association of Cider and Perry growers and producers. The organisation says that the continuing growth in the popularity and production of cider has led to the 2014 awards being the biggest yet, showcasing the best apple and pear ciders available across the country. The Awards attracted 150 entries over 17 categories.

Cider Australia President Sam Reid said the expanded range of award categories reflect the growing range of ciders available in Australia.

“Our aim is to move towards a better understanding and appreciation of the different cider styles available in Australia, by producers and consumers alike,” Mr Reid said.

Chair of the judging panel, Gary Baldwin said of Thatchers Gold, “Thatchers was chosen by the judging panel as it showed complex spiced apple characters and aromas — a lovely example of a medium cider in the traditional style.’’

Managing Director of Thatchers Cider, Martin Thatcher, says, “To hear this news has been fantastic for Thatchers in Australia.

“We’re still only in our first year of partnership with Coopers Brewery, who do an amazing job of distributing Thatchers Gold across Australia and introducing the brand to new consumers.

“Authentic Somerset cider is certainly in demand in Australia with a new generation of cider drinkers looking for heritage cider with great taste, able to discover Thatchers at events such as the popular Night Noodle Markets.

“We are honoured that the Australian Cider Awards have named us not just Best International Cider, but Best In Show. We would like to thank them and all our new customers in Australia for their continuing support of our cider.”

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Penny Adair, Tel: 0117 9040173