Woodchuck Hard Cider Welcomes Cider Maker Ben E. Calvi

MIDDLEBURY, VT -  March 18, 2015 –

Woodchuck® Hard Cider is pleased to welcome Ben Calvi to its cider making team. Calvi has extensive knowledge and experience in both wine and cider making, and will continue the innovative traditions that have been the hallmark of the brand since its inception 24 years ago.

“We are pleased to welcome Ben to the team at a time when the cider industry is experiencing an all-out revolution,” says President and CEO Dan Rowell. “Ben’s expertise will be instrumental as we hand craft the most innovative ciders in the category, and continue our commitment to making ‘Real Cider From a Real Place.’”

Prior to joining the Middlebury-based Woodchuck team, Calvi served as Director of Cider Making at Champlain Orchards in Shoreham VT. He holds a Master of Science in Viticulture and Enology from the University of California Davis and has worked extensively in both Napa Valley, CA and Vermont.

“I am absolutely thrilled to come on board as Cider Maker at Vermont Hard Cider Company,” says Calvi. “The Vermont Hard Cider Company and the Woodchuck brands have led the cider industry for nearly 25 years. Woodchuck has built a world-class cidery here in Middlebury, VT. We are surrounded by some of the highest quality apple orchards in the country, and we have a tremendously talented production, sales and marketing team. I look forward to a bright and tasty future here at The Cidery.”

Calvi will join Cider Maker John Matson in creating unique new ciders that push the envelope and bring bold flavors to Woodchuck fans. Matson’s extensive background in craft brewing and cider making paired with Calvi’s expertise in cider making and enology make them the ideal cider making team.

To learn more about Woodchuck Hard Cider, please visit http://www.woodchuck.com, or download the new mobile app, available for iOS and Android users.