We use passports to transport ourselves to new places—and along the way, they help us discover people, flavors, and experiences we’d never otherwise encounter.
The New York Cider Passport does the same, sans jet lag.
“The passport serves as a powerful tool,” says Ann Bliss, special programs coordinator at the New York Cider Association (NYCA). “By encouraging exploration and engagement, it helps build a larger, more connected network of cider lovers across New York.”
The Empire State boasts more active cideries than any other state. Thanks to its favorable terroir, innovative producers, and enthusiastic consumers, New York’s cider industry generates more than $1.5 billion in economic activity, supporting small farms, orchard-rich landscapes, and local businesses that define the region. It’s all part of what helps earn the state its “NY State of Cider” slogan and logo, developed by the New York Cider Association and now a familiar sight on cans and bottles across the state.
Even for devoted fans, the sheer growth of the industry makes it difficult to keep up. In 2010, New York had just five hard cider producers. After the Farm Cidery License passed in 2013, which made it easier for producers to open and sell directly, there are now well over 100.
Chances are, wherever you are in the state, there’s a cidery within easy reach. But many producers focus more on making great cider than promoting it, leaving even the most curious drinkers unaware of what’s nearby.
That’s where the New York Cider Passport comes in.
New York Cider, At Your Fingertips
In 2024, the New York Cider Association launched a roadmap to hard cider across the state with the release of the New York Cider Trail App. The new New York Cider Passport lives within the broader app, and serves as an extended benefit for enthusiasts and the community of producers.
“The Passport lists all New York Cider Association producer members’ locations, descriptions, and special events,” Bliss says. “Consumers can find cideries by region and plan a cider trail of their own or keep tabs on their favorite local cideries.”
The Interactive Passport Experience and Cider Enthusiast Membership Tier, which costs $50 annually, offers a rewarding route to discovery, with plenty of members-only discounts and benefits embedded in the Passport experience and unavailable on the app alone.
In addition, every producer listed in the Passport section of the app features in-depth profiles highlighting each cider’s story and regional character. Users will be able to collect digital badges, reach milestones and complete challenges within the app, sometimes qualifying them for giveaways.
The Passport debuted during New York Cider Week in May, and the early response has been strong.
“We are continually adding new challenges and badges to reflect events throughout the NYCA community,” Bliss says. “Restaurant and bottle shops that offer New York cider will also be showcased on the app in the near future.”
So far, the Trail App has seen close to 10,000 downloads, with encouraging engagement. About half of participating cideries already offer Passport perks, including discounts.
Bigger Perks for Passport Holders
Beyond incentives, the Passport’s biggest impact may be cultural.
“New York cider is all about building relationships and community—producer to consumer, and consumer to consumer,” Bliss says. “The Passport adds another dimension to drinking cider. There’s connectivity through the gamified experience, along with real support and appreciation between producers and consumers.”
For casual drinkers, the Passport offers an easy way to explore. For those who want to dive deeper, it also opens doors to broader opportunities within the cider world.
Members gain access to a growing Cider Resource Library, with educational materials, industry insights, and pathways for those interested in turning passion into profession. The platform also connects users through the Cider Clubhouse Facebook community, where they can join discussions, attend virtual events, and meet growers, makers, and fellow enthusiasts.
At every level, the Passport is designed to bring people closer—to the cider, to the places it’s made, and to one another.
New York is one of the most exciting places in the world to drink cider right now. With the New York Cider Passport, discovery is right at your fingertips. Just download the app, join the community, and set your GPS for exploration.
Photos courtesy New York Cider Association.
