Dorset-based Isaac Cider is celebrating international recognition after winning two Silver Medals at the International Cider Awards 2026, part of the globally respected International Brewing & Cider Awards.
Often described as the “Olympics of the brewing and cider world,” the competition attracts hundreds of entries from across the globe, with producers competing for first (gold), second (silver) and third (bronze) place medals across a wide range of categories. This year’s entries spanned countries from Sweden to Cambodia, demonstrating the truly international scale of the competition.
The family-run cidery, based in Beaminster, Dorset, was recognised for two of its ciders in the Tannin Driven Cider categories:
• Calculus – Silver Medal, Dry Category
• Anti-Gravity – Silver Medal, Medium Category
In the Dry category, first place was awarded to a producer from the United States, with Isaac Cider taking second place, followed by New Zealand, underlining the global nature and prestige of the awards.
The judging took place over three days of rigorous tasting and discussion, with 43 international judges drawn from working brewers and cider makers around the world. Known within the drinks industry as “The Brewers’ & Cidermakers’ Choice”, the awards are unique in being judged exclusively by industry professionals. Entries are assessed through blind tasting and panel discussion, rewarding drinks that demonstrate both technical excellence and commercial appeal.
For a small Dorset producer, the double silver result highlights the growing reputation of the region’s craft cider sector on the international stage.
Rollo Wood, Founder and Cidermaker at Isaac Cider, said: “Winning two silver medals in such a respected international competition is a huge moment for us. To have our ciders recognised by fellow cider makers from around the world is incredibly rewarding and reflects the care that goes into every batch we produce here in Dorset.”
With a history spanning more than 125 years, the International Brewing & Cider Awards are the longest-running competition of their kind. Their judging process is widely respected within the drinks industry, relying on discussion and consensus among expert panels rather than numerical scoring, ensuring that medal winners represent the highest standards of quality and market potential.
Isaac Cider’s success places Dorset firmly on the global cider map, showcasing the county’s rich heritage of orchard growing and cider making. Follow their journey on Instagram and Facebook.
