Entries open for 2026 Fruit Wine & Cider Awards

Entries are now open for the 2026 Fruit Wine & Cider Awards – recognising excellence in the growing industry across cider, fruit wine, mead, kombucha, and alcoholic soft drinks. 

First held in 1984, the Awards are run by the Fruit Wine and Cider Makers Association. To reflect the growth and diversity of the sector, the Awards continue to operate as two competitions: the New Zealand Cider Awards and the Fruit Wine & Mead Awards.

The Cider Award classes include Modern NZ Cider, Traditional Cider, Pear Cider/Perry, Cider Blend, and Speciality Cider.

The Fruit Wine & Mead Awards span Fortified Fruit Wine/Liqueur, Alcoholic Soft Drinks, Table Wine, Mead, and Alcoholic Kombucha.

Entries will close on 29 August with samples to be received by 4 September. The Awards presentation will take place in Nelson on 13 November.

W: Entry information at cider.org.nz