Timing is ripe for the second annual Australian Cider Festival

15 Oct 2013

Preparations for the country’s largest cider festival are in full swing, with more than 1,500 people expected to flock to the Australian Cider Festival this weekend.

Manly’s Hotel Steyne is being transformed into a cider-lover’s paradise for the annual event – a true celebration of the best ciders matched with quality local food and entertainment.

“The weather in Sydney has been absolutely sensational for enjoying a refreshing cider lately, so the timing of the festival couldn’t be better,’’ organiser Rich Coombes said.

“There are ciders from 25 local and international cider brands on offer so there’s great diversity to explore as a festivalgoer and the Hotel Steyne will convert all 24 taps downstairs to cider for the weekend.’’

The two-day cider festival is the culmination of the Australian Cider Awards, which were judged in Orange, with a presentation ceremony to be held this Friday night at the Sebel Hotel, in Surry Hills.

“It’s going to be a relaxed environment all weekend. We think it is an event Sydney-siders will appreciate and continue to embrace given the growing popularity of top-quality ciders and after last year’s success,’’ Mr Coombes said.

Entry to the festival is $35 and includes a program, tasting glass, 10 complimentary tastings, gourmet roll, live music from Triple J unearthed bands Sons of the East and Benjalu, as well as other activities.

A key component of the festival includes a Producers Forum in the Hotel Steyne’s Moonshine Cider and Rum Bar, from 10am – 12 pm on Saturday. The forum will be an interactive session hosted by US expert Gary Awdey, with tickets available at the door for $25.

Media Note:
The festival is open to the media from 1pm to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. For more details or to arrange previews, with photos/overlay vision and interviews, please call Rich Coombes on 0434 020 653.