Biddenden Sparkling Cider Crowned Supreme Champion

Biddenden 2021 Vintage Sparkling Cider has officially been named Supreme Champion at the British Cider Championships 2025, held at the Royal Bath & West Show, one of Europe’s most prestigious cider competitions. The win marks a milestone moment for the Barnes family and for Kent, placing Biddenden at the pinnacle of British cider-making.

Crafted using méthode traditionnelle, the same approach used to produce Champagne, this vintage cider is a masterclass in Kentish fruit, winemaking finesse, and patience. Made from a carefully balanced blend of Bramley, Cox and Russet apples grown in Kent, the cider is aged in stainless steel, with some lees stirring and spends a minimum of 12 months on cork before being released. The result: crisp bubbles, vibrant orchard aromas and a refined dry finish that has wowed judges and cider lovers alike.

“Fantastic,” says Tom Barnes, General Manager and third-generation family member at Biddenden.

“As a business we’re just so very proud. To be awarded Supreme Champion at such a high level is an honour and testament to what we do here blending local ingredients, heritage and winemaking precision. We’re so honoured to have brought this accolade home to the Heart of the Garden of England, Kent.”

Cider Reimagined – from the Heart of Kent

Originally planted in 1969, Biddenden is Kent’s original commercial vineyard, still owned and managed by the Barnes family over 56 years later. While renowned for their wines, Biddenden has been producing cider since the 1970s and this further highlights this success story.

“We’ve been making cider since the 1970s when my father, Julian, first launched Biddenden Cider and although we no longer have orchards, we work closely with local growers in Kent, some for over 40 years!”,

Tom explains.

“Kentish Bramley apples play a heavy role in our blends and work well alongside Cox and Russet. The key to the quality of our ciders is the wine-making techniques that we employ, including ageing on the lees, the disgorging of the yeast and the addition of a ‘dosage’, the ingredients of which are a closely guarded secret. To have our cider recognised at the national level is incredibly special.”

The winning cider impressed judges with its lightness, balance and standout character, taking top honours in a field of entries from across the UK. Chair of Judges, Martin Thatcher, from Thatcher’s Cider, described it as:

“Outstanding – perfectly balanced, light, fresh, and with that ‘wow factor’ from the first sip.”

Championing Local, Supporting Tourism, Celebrating Kent

The award comes at a time when Kent’s reputation as a food and drink destination is booming, with visitors seeking authentic, local experiences. Biddenden’s tours, tastings and on-site shop have become a must-visit for both tourists and trade, offering a true taste of the county’s rural richness.

“We’re more than just a producer,” says Tom. “We’re a place to visit, to learn, to taste and to celebrate what makes Kent so special. This win helps put Biddenden and Kent on the map, even more so than before, not just for wine and cider, but for craftsmanship and being a tourism destination.”

Biddenden’s Sparkling Cider is already making waves among buyers, hospitality outlets and discerning drinkers looking for premium, English-made alternatives to Champagne and Prosecco.

The cider is available directly from Biddenden or online. It is ideal for celebrations, gifts or a summer aperitif.

Award-Winning Across the Board

This year’s competition saw Biddenden take home two major accolades:

• Supreme Champion & Best in Class – Sparkling Cider 2021

• Best In Class Fruit Cider – Biddies Strawberry Mint

• Silver award – Biddenden Ice Cider 2021

Visit Biddenden year-round for tastings, tours and local produce.