Two companies working with TEAL have put Norway on the international cider map. In this year’s edition of the International Cider Challenge, both OmCider and Apal Sideri took top honors - winning gold and the competition’s highest distinction.
Norwegian cider has been gaining international attention in recent years, and this year’s results confirm that the industry is moving in the right direction. At the 2025 International Cider Challenge (ICC) - a global competition that draws entries from producers around the world - OmCider was awarded gold in the Rosé Cider category for its cider Flørt, while Apal Sideri received the competition’s highest award, the Trophy, for its naturally sparkling cider Aurum.
Both producers have worked for years to refine quality, innovate, and build strong brand positions. As participants in the "Næringshageprogram", they’ve combined craftsmanship with strategic business development - and the medals now serve as clear proof of their progress.
«Winning gold at the International Cider Challenge confirms that we’re on the right track - and that we’ve made some good decisions along the way. For us, this isn’t just about receiving a medal. It’s about being recognized by an industry we respect and look up to. We’re still a young producer, and we continue to learn every day - both from our own experiences and from others in the field. That’s why we meet this recognition with pride, but also with humility. This is just the beginning. The award gives us motivation to keep growing, to stay true to the craft, and to keep challenging ourselves,» - Andreas Kvame from OmCider.
«It feels completely surreal - but incredibly exciting - to say that our cider Aurum has won the Trophy in the International Cider Challenge! This is one of the most prestigious cider competitions in the world, so receiving this kind of recognition is both emotional and deeply motivating. Behind every bottle is a lot of hard work, trial and error, and a deep love for the raw ingredients and the craft. This means the world to us. Thank you to everyone who’s cheered us on, tasted our ciders, given feedback, and believed in what we’re doing. This gives us new energy to keep improving - and to help take Norwegian cider out into the world,» - Dan Olav Sæbø, Founder of Apal Sideri.
A Competition with Global Prestige
Now in its 15th year, the International Cider Challenge is recognized as one of the leading arenas for evaluating cider quality. The jury is made up of a diverse panel of producers, sensory experts, journalists, buyers, and professionals from across the industry. All entries are judged blind, with quality, balance, complexity, and stylistic accuracy as the key criteria. Winning any medal at the ICC is a mark of excellence - and receiving the Trophy is reserved for the very best.
That Apal Sideri won the Trophy for Aurum highlights the exceptional quality of Norwegian fruit and cider craftsmanship. Meanwhile, OmCider’s success with Flørt shows that modern, fruit-forward rosé styles also have a place at the top.
A Quality Mark for the Entire Industry
Through targeted work and support from the "Næringshageprogram", both OmCider and Apal Sideri have built strong positions in a highly competitive industry. These achievements are not only individual victories, but also a powerful symbol of what’s possible in Norwegian agriculture and the beverage sector.
«That both OmCider and Apal Sideri placed at the very top of the International Cider Challenge shows the strength and quality of Norwegian cider production. These are two companies that have worked strategically and long-term - and it’s inspiring to see how it pays off on the global stage. For us at TEAL, this is proof of what’s possible when passionate producers combine craftsmanship with structured business development. These awards aren’t just a win for the companies - they send a clear signal that Norwegian cider can claim a strong international position,» - Bent O. Hansen, COO TEAL.
As international attention continues to grow, new opportunities are opening up for Norwegian cider - in exports, partnerships, and visibility. With producers who are willing to invest, innovate, and raise the bar, the future looks promising.
We congratulate OmCider and Apal Sideri on their impressive achievements and look forward to following their journey onward.
