Two cider producers from Ryfylke have made history in Barcelona. At the World Luxury Awards 2025, Norwegian cider was served alongside Moët & Chandon – a breakthrough that places Norwegian craftsmanship on the global luxury stage.
When the World Luxury Awards bring together some of the most influential figures in travel and hospitality, it is usually the major international brands that dominate. This year was different. Among luxury names like Moët & Chandon, guests were introduced to cider from Hjelmeland in Ryfylke.
Apal Sideri and OmCider were given the spotlight as the first Norwegian producers ever to appear at this prestigious event. The World Luxury Awards is an international awards ceremony and networking arena for the luxury industry, recognized as one of the most important platforms for setting trends and building global connections.
Behind the initiative is Arctic Appetites, a Norwegian–Spanish company dedicated to bringing Norwegian small-scale producers to international markets. As a Grand Luxe partner at this year’s awards, the company had the opportunity to present Norwegian cider to industry professionals from more than 60 countries.
“We are standing in the same welcome area as the world’s largest luxury brands, and what we represent is true craftsmanship – Norwegian cider made from Ryfylke apples,” says Jon Magnus Solgaard, founder of Arctic Appetites.
For Dan Olav Sæbø at Apal Sideri, the participation is about positioning Norwegian cider in a larger context:
“Norwegian cider is no longer just a local phenomenon – it’s part of a broader movement. We’re showing that small producers from Ryfylke can deliver at the same level as international wine and champagne houses.”
At OmCider, Bodil and Andreas Kvame at Fevoll Farm place identity and landscape at the heart of their work.
“Each bottle carries the taste of fjords, rainfall, and apple orchards. Sharing the stage with Moët & Chandon proves that authentic craftsmanship also has a place in the world of luxury,” says Andreas Kvame.
While the Barcelona launch earlier this year marked an entry into the Spanish market, the World Luxury Awards represent a clear step further – into the luxury segment. Here, Norwegian cider met an audience of hotel executives, brand leaders, international press, and decision-makers.
That two small producers from Hjelmeland earned this place highlights both the potential of Norwegian cider and the strength of collaboration between local producers and international partners.
