In this episode of Cider Chat MC, Ria Windcaller speaks with Ron Extract of Garden Path Fermentation about a lawsuit currently pending that challenges a surprising restriction in U.S. alcohol labeling.
Ron explains that when his cidery submitted a label for TTB approval for the first time (because the cider was just over 7% ABV), the label was rejected for including the harvest year — even though the date was accurate and truthful.
What’s the Cider Label Lawsuit About?
Ron shares that the issue came to his attention when the TTB rejected a label that included a harvest year date, even though:
- the cider was made entirely from a single harvest
- the date reflected when the apples were grown (not when packaged)
- the statement was truthful and accurate
The label in question included: “2024 Heirloom Blend”
Ron’s goal is to be able to clearly communicate: this cider came from the 2024 harvest.
Why the 7% ABV Threshold Matters
One of the most eye-opening parts of this story is that the restriction isn’t evenly applied across cider.
Ron explains:
- Cider under 7% ABV is typically regulated through FDA labeling standards (no label pre-approval)
- Cider over 7% ABV requires TTB label approval
…and that’s where the “vintage year” issue appears.
This creates a strange inconsistency where some cider makers can include harvest dates freely, while others cannot, depending solely on alcohol percentage.
Why Harvest Year Matters to Cider
Ron emphasizes cider is an agricultural product, and harvest year matters because apples change year to year just like grapes do.
Being able to identify harvest year supports:
- transparency
- consumer education
- comparing seasonal differences
- seeking out standout years (like wine lovers do with vintages)
Could the TTB Change the Policy Without the Courts?
Ron shares the label has not been fully rejected yet, but has been pushed back multiple times and is now marked as “hold for research.”
He notes that if the TTB simply changes course and allows harvest-year labeling for cider, that would be the fastest and smoothest outcome.
How This Cider Lawsuit with First Amendment implications Affects Cider Imports
The argument is simple:
Cider makers should be able to include truthful, accurate information on labels, especially when the information benefits consumers.
Ron points out that small international producers may already use vintage/harvest dating on their labels, and restricting that in the U.S. can create major cost burdens and sometimes makes economically impossible for them to sell here at all.
Contact Info for Garden Path Fermentation and how to follow this lawsuit
- Instagram / Facebook: GardenPathWA
- Website: gardenpathwa.com
Mentions in this Cider Chat
- Cider Vibes presents – The Debutants and the Whistles – Bluegrass & Cider event Thursday February 5, 2026 8:00 PM – 11:55 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)
- Cider Salon Hungary April 18, 2026
- 2026 UK Blossom Time Totally Cider Tour April 27 – May 3rd.
- French Cider Tour – September
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