Cider Wins Dual Platinum for 2 Towns Guava Get Down at 9th Cidercraft Awards

The craft cider segment has seen its share of U.S. alcohol sales slip from 0.6 % in 2020 to 0.5 % in 2024, while the Cidercraft Awards drew more than 1,400 entries from North America. In this week’s roundup we focus on how 2 Towns Ciderhouse turned that competitive field into a showcase for both alcoholic and non‑alcoholic quality.

This column examines 2 Towns Ciderhouse’s recent dual Platinum win at the 9th Annual Cidercraft Awards for its Guava Get Down line—both alcoholic and non‑alcoholic. For operators, the headline shows that a cider house can deliver high‑quality products from two distinct production streams while maintaining presence in 16 states.

The key point: dual Platinum on both formats demonstrates that a cider house can keep consistency between alcoholic and dealcoholized products—a notable achievement that supports premium pricing and wider shelf exposure. Craft cider’s share of total alcohol sales fell from 0.6 % in 2020 to 0.5 % in 2024, so differentiation that justifies higher prices is increasingly valuable.

While the PR calls the award “rare,” the competition was intense, with more than 1,400 entries from the U.S., Canada and Ukraine in 2026—one of North America’s toughest cider contests. Still, only a few brands have won both an alcoholic and non‑alcoholic category in the same year.

Since its 2024 launch, 2 Towns has earned 24 awards in major contests such as World Alcohol‑Free Awards and SIP Awards—an indicator of strong product development and marketing alignment. Retailers can use this track record to justify higher price points for the NA line. The brand sells premium and non‑alcoholic ciders between $14.99–$16.99, versus the craft‑cider six‑pack average of $12.99; consumers are willing to pay more for flavor integrity in low‑alcohol options.

Distributors can leverage the dual Platinum win as a sales point in high‑volume markets where premium cider demand stays strong, especially Oregon whose per‑capita consumption is 38 % higher than the national average. With distribution across 16 states—including Wisconsin as the newest market—distributors already have an established network and can use the award to secure shelf space from retailers seeking brands that justify premium pricing.

Retailers and on‑premise managers should note that the non‑alcoholic Guava Get Down launched in January 2026, timed for Dry January. The flavor complexity—achieved through full fermentation and gentle dealcoholization—makes it suitable for low‑alcohol or dry menu segments without compromising taste—a niche still under‑served.

With distribution in 16 states and 24 awards since the NA launch, 2 Towns is positioned to command premium shelf space in high‑volume markets.