New autumn and winter dates for award-winning cider courses from The Ciderologist, Gabe Cook, have been announced after selling out earlier this year.

Ciderologist training

Over the last four and a half years, the courses, run through the Beer and Cider Academy (BACA), have helped to create 28 pommeliers — the pinnacle of cider advocacy — with many hundreds well on their journey to the accolade.

As Europe’s first cider sommelier training programme, these sessions are a must for anyone wishing to become a knowledgeable expert and passionate advocate for cider, says Gabe.

Participants in the courses range from retailers and exporters to larger cider makers, small independent cider makers, and passionate enthusiasts. There are now certified pommeliers across the UK, and into the USA, Norway, and Italy. Training courses this winter will be offered in London, Bristol, Manchester, and Herefordshire.

The announcement of the new course dates coincides with the relaunch of The Ciderologist website, now with clear navigation to all sections, including The Ciderologist Patreon platform, the Neutral Cider Hotel podcast, cider tours, and new merchandise.

Gabe Cook

Gabe (pictured above) — seen regularly on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch and BBC’s Countryfile — said,: “The continued demand for the BACA cider courses demonstrates just what an exciting time for cider it is. The drinks trade, drinks media and, most importantly, drinkers themselves are starting to understand what a versatile, quality, and diverse drink cider can be.

“I have been working full time as The Ciderologist for five years this summer, a milestone which is an indication of cider’s wonderful renaissance. I truly believe that cider has all of the elegance and finesse of a wine, and all of the character and personality of a beer.

“I am terribly excited to be launching my new website, which provides the opportunity for people with a personal or professional interest in cider to experience its full opportunity.”

It caps a busy 2022 for Gabe, which included being named CAMRA’s campaigner of the year and landing at number 24 on Drinks Retailing’s top 100 people in drinks.