Hardcore Cider Co. has been named the recipient of the 2026 Greater Vernon Business Excellence Award for New Business of the Year. Launched in July 2026, Hardcore Cider Co. was founded with a simple goal: produce authentic Okanagan cider made from real fruit while showcasing the agricultural heritage, orchards and terroir of the Okanagan Valley.
Receiving this recognition less than a year after launching is a significant milestone for the young company.
Since launching, Hardcore Cider Co. has expanded its presence through direct-to-consumer sales, regional festivals, industry events and partnerships throughout British Columbia. The cidery has focused on producing small-batch craft cider using Okanagan-grown apples and real fruit additions, including products such as The Core, Unhazy Hopped, Black Hole and Barrel Proof.
Beyond producing cider, the company has actively worked to promote Vernon and the Okanagan as a premier cider-producing region. Through articles, reviews, social media content, festival participation and tourism initiatives, Hardcore Cider Co. continues to highlight the area’s unique growing conditions and the potential for world-class cider production.
Since launching, Hardcore Cider Co. has focused on producing cider differently than many commercial producers. Using 100 per cent Okanagan-grown apples, including traditional cider apple varieties, the company combines orchard-grown fruit with stainless steel fermentation and maturation, cold pressure fermentation, barrel aging and sterile filtration to create premium craft ciders that highlight the character of the fruit and the Okanagan region.
Receiving the award during National Cider Month made the recognition particularly meaningful as Canadian cider producers and orchards celebrated the industry’s growth and agricultural roots.
Hardcore Cider Co. thanked the organizers of the Greater Vernon Business Excellence Awards, the sponsors, customers, retail partners and supporters who have contributed to the company’s success during its first year.
