Wednesday, February 8, 2017

Brock launches cider-making course

Brock University’s grape and wine research unit will launch Canada’s only internationally-accredited cider-making course for apples and perry for pears this spring.

It’s for both professionals and amateurs.

Brock’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) will offer the intensive week-long course April 24-28, under the Cider Institute of North America’s (CINA) renowned training program.

Cornell University in New York state and Oregon State University are the only ones offering the training now.

Ontario’s cider sales increased by 54 per cent in fiscal 2016-16, reports the Liquor Control Board of Ontario.

The sales were worth $5.1 million.

“In this environment, startup cider makers have the unique opportunity to jump start their quality and technique through industry accredited programs such as Brock’s that create a foundation for business success,” said Nick Gunn of the Cider Institute of North America.
CINA certification is the recognized standard for quality in the cider industry, says continuing education manager Barb Tatarnic of Brock’s Cool Climate institute.


“Bringing CINA training to Canada puts CCOVI on the leading edge of an industry that’s exploding,” she said. “And for Brock, it’s a natural extension of the programs we already run for the grape and wine industry.”