About the Northwest Cider Cup

Founded a decade ago by regional cider makers, the Northwest Cider Cup (formerly the Portland International Cider Cup) is one of the most prestigious cider competitions in North America. This renowned award celebrates the most outstanding ciders from the Pacific Northwest, including Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia, a region known for its exceptional cider craftsmanship.

Recognized as the most rigorous cider competition in North America, the Northwest Cider Cup promotes quality, offers valuable feedback to cidermakers, educates cider drinkers, and amplifies the cider category across the world.

Judges are industry professionals who undergo in-depth training to thoughtfully review key elements—appearance, aroma, flavor and mouthfeel—to identify exemplary ciders in each of the categories. 

As a part of the competition, each cider receives invaluable written feedback from industry professionals, which helps cidermakers refine their craft. For winners, the recognition extends beyond the award, with dedicated media coverage through paid ads and media pitches conducted by the Northwest Cider Association.

View All Medal & Award Winners

2026 NW Cider Cup Opens for Entries on March 2

How to Enter NW Cider Cup

  1. Review the NW Cider Cup 2026 Competition Guide
  2. Visit nwcidercup.com to register your entries online. Online entry registration runs until May 15, 2026 with options for shipping and in-person entry drop off.
  3. Ship or deliver your entries to Columbia Distributing (Wilsonville, OR) Review full instructions on nwcidercup.com.

Learn More & Enter

Key Dates – 2026 NORTHWEST Cider Cup

March 2: Competition opens for entries (Online)
March 17: Entry Drop-Off Open at NW Cider Symposium (Tacoma, WA)
March 31: Final Day to complete Judge/Steward Interest Survey 
April 27: Shipping Window and In-Person Drop Off Opens (Wilsonville, OR)
May 15: Final Day for Entry Registration (Online)
May 29: Final Day for Entry Delivery and Drop-Off
June 8: NW Cider Cup Competition
June 25: NW Cider Cup Awards Party (Portland, OR) Get your tickets here to celebrate the winners!