Somerset-based Thatchers Cider has earned global recognition by securing multiple medals, including a coveted gold, at the prestigious Cider World Awards 2025 held in Frankfurt. Their flagship single-variety cider, Thatchers Katy, made exclusively from British Katy apples, earned top honours with an impressive 119-point score. Judges acclaimed it for being “technically perfect,” as well as “fresh, aromatic and easy drinking.”
The Cider World Awards, renowned for their stringent judging process inspired by international wine competitions, combine expert blind tastings with scientific laboratory assessments conducted by Geisenheim University of Applied Sciences. This rigorous approach evaluates the technical precision and authentic flavour profiles of each entry.
Martin Thatcher, representing the fourth generation of the family-run cider makers, expressed pride in the achievement: “Winning at an event of this stature is the dream of every cider maker. To bring home four medals in such a competitive year is a testament to our family’s dedication and expertise spanning over 120 years.”
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In addition to Thatchers Katy’s gold, three other ciders from Thatchers’ portfolio were honoured: Thatchers Heritage claimed gold, Thatchers Oak-aged Redstreak secured silver—both part of the exclusive Cider Barn range—and a unique blend of Porters Perfection and Vilberie received gold as well.
Paul Ross, a cider maker at Thatchers, highlighted the craftsmanship behind the Katy cider: “Its delicate nature demands gentle handling to preserve the complex and unique flavours of the Katy apple. Achieving such high quality on a large scale is an exciting challenge and a proud accomplishment.”
Thatchers Heritage and Oak-aged Redstreak are available directly through the Thatchers farm shop in Sandford and online via their official website.
These accolades underscore Thatchers Cider’s longstanding commitment to producing authentic, high-quality ciders that respect the character of traditional apple varieties.