Essential Sensory Analysis of Cider & Perry
Applied Sensory Training for Cider and Perry Producers
Develop the sensory vocabulary, evaluation skills, and structured testing methods required to assess cider and perry with greater accuracy, consistency, and confidence.
Virginia tech
Food Science & Technology
Blacksburg, VA
Develop Confidence in Sensory Evaluation
Sensory analysis is not simply about tasting cider.
A structured sensory program helps producers describe products more precisely, compare samples objectively, identify meaningful differences, assess consumer response, and connect sensory outcomes with production decisions.
Essential Sensory Analysis of Cider & Perry is an intensive two-day course designed for cider producers and cidery staff seeking a deeper understanding of sensory analysis and its practical application.
The course combines sensory theory, guided tastings, group testing, flavor profiling, and applied product evaluation to help participants make more informed production and quality decisions.
Move Beyond Informal Tasting
Learn how structured sensory methods can help you evaluate products more objectively, communicate characteristics more clearly, and investigate quality or production concerns.
The emphasis is not only on understanding sensory concepts, but on applying structured evaluation methods to real cider and perry products.
What This Course Will Help You Do
Develop Stronger Sensory Judgment
Evaluate cider and perry systematically rather than relying only on personal preference or informal tasting.
Understand Flavor and Aroma
Examine the acids, sugars, bitter compounds, aroma compounds, mouthfeel, and flavor interactions that shape cider and perry.
Identify Attributes and Faults
Recognize desirable characteristics, potential flaws, and sensory clues that can help investigate production and quality concerns.
Apply Structured Testing Methods
Explore difference testing, descriptive testing, acceptance testing, and flavor profiling through guided exercises and group work.
Participants Will Be Able to
How You Will Learn
Guided Sensory Instruction
Learn the principles behind structured sensory analysis and how they apply to cider and perry evaluation.
Flavor and Aroma Exercises
Explore acidity, sweetness, bitterness, aroma compounds, mouthfeel, and flavor interactions through guided tasting.
Fault Demonstrations
Learn to recognize common faults and better understand how production issues may appear during sensory evaluation.
Structured Sensory Testing
Participate in difference, descriptive, and acceptance testing through individual exercises and collaborative group work.
Flavor Profiling and Food Pairing
Develop more complete product profiles and explore how food pairing can influence the sensory experience.
Receive Professional Feedback on Your Product
Participants may bring their own cider or perry products for evaluation by a trained sensory panel.
Each participant may select the sensory test or tests they would like the panel to perform, allowing them to receive focused feedback relevant to their product and production goals.
Inside the Training
Day One: Sensory Bootcamp
May 20, 2027
Day Two: Applied Testing
May 21, 2027
The agenda is subject to change.
Who This Course Is For
Foundational Sensory Knowledge Recommended
Completion of the Foundation Certificate in Cider & Perry Production is recommended.
It is required for participants pursuing the Cider & Perry Certificate Program through CINA.
Alternatively, participants should understand principal cider sensory techniques and flavor-active compounds.
Course Format
Registration Closes APRIL 15, 2027
Questions regarding eligibility may be directed to [email protected].
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations will receive a full refund, less the service fee.
Cancellations will receive a 50% refund, less the service fee.
Registrations are non-refundable. Substitutions from the same organization are welcome.
If the course is canceled or interrupted, the Cider Institute and/or workshop host will not be responsible for airfare or accommodation costs. Other course-related costs may be reimbursed, upon review, in proportion to the canceled activities and less a reasonable administrative cost.
Why Learn With the Cider Institute?
The Cider Institute provides education for people who want to deepen their knowledge of cider production and the wider cider industry.
Our courses are developed with input from experienced cider professionals and educators, helping learners build practical knowledge grounded in real-world production.