It’s often said that New York cider is a labor of love, and for Ann Bliss, that love story began with a simple act of sibling bonding. Forget the typical orchard tour; for Ann Bliss, Certified Pommelier, Head Bartender at Mullers Cider House, and NYCA’s Special Projects Coordinator, falling for craft cider was a joint adventure with her sister; a journey that quickly became a tradition.

Today, Ann’s dedication is an enormous asset to our association, and her passion is infectious. She embodies the consumer, the educator, and the advocate, giving her a vital 360-degree view of our entire community.

Ann's daily interactions at Mullers Cider House offer a unique barometer for consumer tastes. She notes a significant, exciting shift: customers are trending drier. This change, she believes, goes hand-in-hand with education—the more consumers learn about production and taste the apple in the glass, the more their palates evolve. Ann highlights the magic of working in the Finger Lakes/Western NY region, a “safe haven” where relationship building with makers is key. It's here she learned the conversation starter: not just that a cider is dry, but that its acidity tastes like lemon, and its tannins provide body, leading people down the "rabbit hole" of flavor.

In her role as the Special Projects Coordinator, Ann is driven by two major goals that will benefit every member: she aims to flesh out the enthusiast space within NYCA to build a stronger community centered not just on cider, but on agriculture, history, and food sovereignty. Perhaps her most exciting vision is working towards establishing American Pomological Areas (APAs) with the TTB. This initiative would elevate the conversation around terroir and define why New York's regions are uniquely special.

Ann’s ultimate advice for any cidery is simple, genuine, and profound: "Go with your gut." She encourages makers to chase their passion, even if it leads them to a unique style. Ann argues that the storytelling and the love you pour into a craft product is what people truly respond to. They may not instantly love every single cider, but "they'll love your cidery and come back for that experience of the storytelling and the community."

We are thrilled to have Ann's energy and wisdom guiding the New York Cider Association. Her commitment to building community and advocating for the true craft of cider makes her an irreplaceable part of our family. Thank you, Ann, for everything you do!