Knowledge-driven Baltic Cider Production and Branding for Growth and Competitiveness of SMEs.

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A Estonia-Latvia

Date of latest update: 2026-04-13

Description

Description (EN):

The project aims to address a common challenge faced by Latvian and Estonian cider makers, focusing on the lack of research-based knowledge in certain areas related to cider production and marketing. The key issues include utilizing the "terroir," selecting relevant apple varieties, and positioning Baltic cider in the market. The overall objective is to enhance the competitiveness of cider makers in Latvia and Estonia by developing a knowledge-based Baltic Cider brand. The project seeks to create a universal solution applicable to cider-producing SMEs in the region, integrating knowledge from horticulture research, cider production, and brand development. The main outputs of the project include the knowledge-based Baltic Cider brand, which will be grounded in research on terroir and apple varieties. Cider makers will benefit from the solution by improving the quality and competitiveness of their products. Project partners, the Institute of Horticulture, the Polli Horticultural Research Centre of the Estonian University of Life Sciences, ERTO, and LC will play key roles in knowledge transfer, brand building, and promotion. The cross-border approach is essential due to the shared challenges faced by Latvia and Estonia in the relatively new craft cider-making sector. The collaboration allows the countries to leverage their complementary expertise, emphasizing common cultural and geographical elements. The Baltic Cider brand can benefit from cost efficiencies and enter international markets more effectively, fostering regional integration and cooperation. The project aims to unlock the unused cross-border potential of craft cider production to enhance sustainable growth for SMEs in the Baltic region.

Actual Achievements (EN):

During the reporting period, progress was made toward achieving the project's objectives, focusing on fostering collaboration between Latvian and Estonian cider producers and advancing the development of the Baltic Cider brand. Key activities included: 1) Kick-off and Coordination: The project started with a kick-off meeting in Dobele, Latvia, on July 8-9, 2024, attended by representatives from 8 SMEs (6 from Latvia and 2 from Estonia) and other project participants. This was followed by an online meeting on August 19, 2024 to finalize methodologies for sample collection and coordination. The 2nd partner meeting in Polli, Estonia (November 12-13, 2024) gathered representatives from 10 SMEs (7 from Latvia and 3 from Estonia), fostering further collaboration and planning. 2) Research and Sample Collection: Methodologies for sample collection and analysis were collaboratively developed by LC and both research institutes, Lathort and EMU. Initial samples of apples, juices, and soils were collected from SMEs in Latvia and Estonia. These were exchanged between the institutes for analysis, and preliminary results began to emerge, laying the groundwork for the development of a terroir map and supporting cider production research. 3) Experience Exchange and Training: Experience exchange and training activities are integrated into partner meetings to build SMEs capacity in cider production and support the development of the Baltic Cider brand. Six events are planned throughout the project, with the first two already completed. The kickoff meeting in Dobele, Latvia, included a session on cider apple varieties and their suitability for production, followed by a study visit to Pienjani cider farm in Skaistkalne parish, Latvia, to explore organic farming and cider production practices. The second session took place during the partner meeting in Polli, Estonia, featuring a training session led by the Polli Horticultural Research Center on sensory evaluation of juices and ciders, and a study visit to Tori Cider and Wine Farm in Tori parish, Estonia, to explore production techniques and challenges. 4) Brand Development and Promotion: Initial discussions on the Baltic Cider Route and joint marketing strategies were initiated. Outreach activities included social media updates, press releases, and the creation of project summaries on each partner’s webpage to introduce the Baltic Cider initiative and outline its objectives. A3 posters were also displayed in visible locations at the premises of project partners to raise awareness about the project (see attachment "A3 posters_all partners"). Public events, such as the Apple Festival on October 20, 2024, at Āgenskalns Market in Riga, Latvia, and Apple Day on October 7, 2024, in Dobele, Latvia, showcased apple cultivars and cider products. These events engaged stakeholders, including cider producers, industry professionals, and the general public, raising awareness of cider production and apple diversity. Details on communication activities and events are provided in the attachment section titled "Baltic Cider_Communication Activities_RP1" 5) Engagement with SMEs: Throughout the reporting period, a total of 15 SMEs (11 from Latvia and 4 from Estonia) actively participated in meetings and project activities, contributing to discussions and preparations for the next phases of the project. See more details in the Target Groups section. During the reporting period, progress was made toward achieving the project's objectives, focusing on strengthening collaboration between Latvian and Estonian cider producers, progressing research activities, and developing the Baltic Cider brand. Key activities included: 1) Coordination and Management: The Lead Partner ensured regular coordination and communication among project partners. The 2nd partner meeting took place on November 12–13, 2024, in Polli, Estonia, with the participation of 28 representatives, including 13 from SMEs (9 from Latvia and 4 from Estonia). Discussions addressed project progress, planned activities, sample analysis updates, and brand development. An online meeting is planned for April 3, 2025, to review further analysis results and continue brand-related work. The next in-person partner meeting is scheduled for June 10–11, 2025, in Latvia. 2) Research and Sample Collection: Under WP1 "Solution Development," research activities progressed through the finalization of sample collection for 2024, preliminary analysis of collected materials, and continued coordination between research institutes and SMEs. Preliminary results were presented during the partner meeting in Polli to guide the next steps in research and sample evaluation. 3) Experience Exchange and Training: Under WP2 "Solution Piloting," training and experience exchange activities were carried out. On November 12–13, 2024, during the 2nd partner meeting in Polli, Estonia, a sensory evaluation training session was held, helping participants improve knowledge on juice and cider quality assessment. As part of the meeting program, a study visit to Tori Cider and Wine Farm took place, supporting knowledge exchange on cider production methods and quality control practices. 4) Within WP3 "Baltic Cider Brand Promotion," discussions continued on the development of the brand and promotional tools. Progress included the creation of the Baltic Cider logo and refinement of visual identity elements to support future promotion. Outreach efforts included participation at CiderCon 2025 (February 4–8, 2025, Chicago, USA), and promotional events at the UK and Finland embassies to raise international awareness. Additionally, an info session organized by ERTO on November 27, 2024, gathered 106 participants, during which project objectives were presented and Estonian cider producers shared their export readiness experiences. 5) Communication and Outreach: Communication activities maintained the visibility of the project through regular social media updates, website content, press releases, and engagement with cider producers. The project’s participation at CiderCon 2025 was also covered, supporting international visibility and awareness of the Baltic Cider brand. Further details are available in the attached communication summary. During the reporting period, progress was made toward achieving the project's objectives, focusing on strengthening collaboration between Latvian and Estonian cider producers, progressing research activities, and developing the Baltic Cider brand. Key activities included: 1) Coordination and Management: The Lead Partner ensured regular coordination and communication among project partners. The 3rd partner meeting took place on June 10-11, 2025, in Smiltene, Latvia, gathering 29 participants, including 15 from SMEs (7 from Latvia, 8 from Estonia). Discussions covered project progress, upcoming activities, and the promotion of the Baltic Cider brand, including its representation at international and European events. Results of sample analysis and cider producers survey were also presented, providing insights into the collected data and guiding further research activities. The 4th face-to-face meeting will take place in Estonia on September 8-9, 2025. 2) Research and Sample Collection: Under WP1 “Solution Development”, research activities progressed through the continuation of sample analyses, development of the terroir map concept, and coordination between Latvian and Estonian research institutes and SMEs. A questionnaire on farm management practices was completed with 12 responses, providing complementary data for terroir mapping. Biochemical analyses of apple and juice samples were carried out. The approach for 2025 sample collection was agreed during the Smiltene partner meeting. 3) Experience Exchange and Training: Under WP2 "Solution Piloting", an experience exchange was organized as part of the partner meeting in Smiltene (June 10–11, 2025). Visits to “Mūrbūdu Sidrs” and “Abuls Cidery” allowed producers to present their production approaches, facilities, and equipment, providing partners with practical insights and supporting knowledge exchange on cider production methods and quality control practices. During the meeting, the piloting process was discussed as well. 4) Within WP3 "Baltic Cider Brand Promotion," discussions involved the development of promotional materials and promotional Baltic Cider video, and planning for participation at international and European events. As part of the Central Baltic project “Exports of the Baltic and Finnish Craft Ciders to Australia” (official number CB0700297), a new website dedicated to Baltic Cider is being developed. Information has already been published under the “Discover Baltic Cider” section, including content about the story of Baltic cider, flavour profiles and traditions, the cider-making process, and the art of cider tasting. Information from the analysis process and the terroir map will be added there as well. Once the Baltic Cider Route is developed, it will also be published on the website. Link to "Discover Baltic Cider" section on the website: https://balticcider.com/lv/discover. On 3 July 2025, the project manager participated in a meeting with representatives from the European Commission (DG REGIO) and the Latvian Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development (VARAM). During the meeting, the Baltic Cider project was presented as an example of cross-border cooperation and innovation. The project’s goals and ongoing activities were introduced, contributing to its visibility at the European level. Further details are available in the attached documents (2025_07_03_Draft_Agenda_event_Alūksne.pdf and 2025_07_03_event_Alūksne_explanations.pdf). 5) Communication and Outreach: Communication activities maintained the visibility of the project through regular social media updates, website content, and engagement with cider producers, ensuring visibility and a consistent approach to communication. Further details are available in the attached communication summary. During the reporting period, progress was made toward achieving the project's objectives, focusing on strengthening collaboration between Latvian and Estonian cider producers, progressing research activities, and developing the Baltic Cider brand. Key activities included: 1) Coordination and Management: The Lead Partner ensured regular coordination and communication among project partners. The 4th partner meeting took place on September 9, 2025, in Parnu, Estonia, gathering 35 participants, including 21 from SMEs (12 from Latvia, 9 from Estonia). Discussions covered project activities, including laboratory analysis and results, pilot and experimental cider production, the development of a terroir map, as well as marketing. The 5th face-to-face meeting will take place in Latvia, Kurzeme region in spring 2026. 2) Research and Sample Collection: Under WP1 “Solution Development”, research activities progressed through the continuation of sample collection and analyses, development of the terroir map concept (including information from questionnaire on farm management practices), and coordination between Latvian and Estonian research institutes and SMEs. A common approach to experimental cider production was agreed. 3) Experience Exchange and Training: Under WP2 "Solution Piloting", an experience exchange was organized as part of the partner meeting in Parnu (September 9, 2025). Visit to Jaanihanso Cidery allowed the owners to present their production approaches, facilities, and equipment, providing partners with practical insights and supporting knowledge exchange on cider production methods and quality control practices. During the meeting, the piloting process and ideas was discussed as well. 4) Within WP3 "Baltic Cider Brand Promotion," discussions involved the development of promotional materials and promotional Baltic Cider video, and planning for participation at international and European events. As a result of this cooperation, the first promotional materials were produced, including 12 T-shirts and Baltic Cider bottle labels, and the “Baltic Cider Story” video featuring Mūrbūdu Cidery was created. 5) Communication and Outreach: Communication activities maintained the visibility of the project through regular social media updates, website content, and engagement with cider producers, ensuring visibility and a consistent approach to communication. Further details are available in the attached communication summary. Outside the project activities, Reelika Rätsep from PP4 participated in the INTERREG Estonia-Latvia Programme Partner Seminar that took place on 24-25 September, 2025 at ASA Spa Hotel in Kuressaare, Saaremaa, Estonia.

Project outputs: Estonian and Latvian project partner organisations cooperating.(EN)
Pilot action jointly developed and distributed for implementation among 10 cider making SMEs.(EN)
Knowledge-based Baltic Cider brand.(EN)

Thematic information

SME and entrepreneurship Knowledge and technology transfer

Priority: (VI-A_EE-Lv_2) Jointly and smartly growing businesses

Priority specific objective: RSO1.3. Enhancing sustainable growth and competitiveness of SMEs and job creation in SMEs, including by productive investments

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO1 A more competitive and smarter Europe by promoting innovative and smart economic transformation and regional ICT connectivity

Type of intervention: 028 Technology transfer and cooperation between enterprises, research centres and higher education sector

Partners (4)

Lead Partner: Latvijas Lauku tūrisma asociācija "Lauku ceļotājs"

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 950238094

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 40008005627

Address: n/a, LV-5020 Ķegums, Latvia

Department address: LV5020 Ķegums, Latvia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.celotajs.lv

Total budget: EUR 195 368.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 156 294.40

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 39 073.60

Eesti Maaülikool

Name: Eesti Maaülikool

Department: Polli Horticultural Research Centre

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999857280

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 74001086

Address: Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi, 51006 Tartu, Estonia

Department address: Uus, 9108 Polli, Mulgi parish, Estonia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.emu.ee

Total budget: EUR 154 504.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 123 603.20

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 30 900.80

GBER schemes / de minimis: GBER Article 20

Dārzkopības Institūts

Name: Dārzkopības Institūts

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 986357596

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 90002127692

Address: Graudu, LV-3701 Dobele, Latvia

Department address: Graudu, LV3701 Dobele, Latvia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.darzkopibasinstituts.lv/en

Total budget: EUR 153 738.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 122 990.40

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 30 747.60

GBER schemes / de minimis: GBER Article 20

MTÜ Eesti Maaturism

Name: MTÜ Eesti Maaturism

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 940097132

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 80122220

Address: Vilmsi , 10115 Tallinn, Estonia

Department address: Vilmsi , 10115 Tallinn, Estonia

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.maaturism.ee

Total budget: EUR 120 320.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 96 256.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 24 064.00

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Estonian University of Life Sciences

Knowledge-driven Baltic Cider Production and Branding for Growth and Competitiveness of SMEs.

Partners and Projects info

Institute of Horticulture

Knowledge-driven Baltic Cider Production and Branding for Growth and Competitiveness of SMEs.

Partners and Projects info

NGO Estonian Rural Tourism

Knowledge-driven Baltic Cider Production and Branding for Growth and Competitiveness of SMEs.

Partners and Projects info

Latvian Country Tourism Association "Lauku ceļotājs"

Knowledge-driven Baltic Cider Production and Branding for Growth and Competitiveness of SMEs.

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Knowledge-driven Baltic Cider Production and Branding for Growth and Competitiveness of SMEs.

Project acronym: BALTIC CIDER

Project ID: EE-LV00145

Project start date: 2024-07-01

Project end date: 2027-06-30

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

BASCIL (Innovative Solutions for the Rural Food Production Sector to Diversify into Sustainable Culinary Tourism Services). Supported by Interreg Baltic Sea Region programme. (EN) | BASCIL is a transnational cooperation project involving 15 partners from 8 countries (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Finland). LC is a project partner. The aim of the BASCIL project is to develop culinary tourism services in rural areas of the Baltic Sea region and to improve the resilience of local food producers through the diversification of their business activities in the field of the tourism sector. The project will gather and analyse the existing knowledge and best practices from the region to create a sustainability and comprehensive solution for mitigating various risks of local food producers and networks in the Baltic Sea region. Pilot regions and networks are included in the project from each country. From Latvia, craft Cider producers are involved as a pilot sector. (EN), Tourism product "Cider Route" - development and marketing. (EN) | The project was implemented in Latvia in 2019-2021 with the support from EAFRD administered by the Ministry of Agriculture of Latvia. It was the first attempt to highlight cider as a national beverage, to bring forwards cider making as an innovative occupation in rural areas and based on local resources. The primary emphasis was on engaging in culinary tourism throughout the entire process and full cycle—from cultivating fruit gardens to crafting cider, organising apple festivals, and opening to visitors. The project initiated collaboration between cider makers and tourism sector which was further pursued jointly participating in cider and culinary tourism promotion events.
(EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 623 930.00

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 499 144.00

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

ERDF: Amount, EUR 499 144.00. Co-financing rate, 80.00%.

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Innovations in the production process and marketing at Mr. Plūme Cidery, SIA “Jumpravas sidrs”.
Innovations in the production process and marketing at Lauskis winery, SIA "LAUSKIS"
Innovations in the production process and marketing at Sabiles Sidrs, SIA "Sabiles Sidrs".
Innovations in the production process and marketing at Abuls Cidery, SIA "Urtica".
Innovations in the production process and marketing at Mūrbūdu Sidrs, SIA Mūrbūdu sidra darītava.
Innovations in the production process and marketing at Herbsts, SIA SKRAMPIJS.
Innovations in the production process and marketing at Tālava Cider, SIA "TĀLAVA".
Innovations in the production process and marketing at aanihanso Cider House, Jaanihanso OÜ.
Innovations in the production process and marketing at KODAS, Siidrikoda OÜ.
Innovations in the production process and marketing atTori-Jõesuu Siidri-ja Veinitalu OÜ.

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyBalticSeaRegion The project contributes to the USBSR overall objective 3. Increase Prosperity.
The project has a wider impact as it aims at developing the Baltic Cider brand together with core collaborating SMEs for further expansion across the programme area in Estonia and Latvia.
The brand has a long-term potential for further collaboration with craft cider sector in the whole BSR. Hereby the project supports the achievement of the sub-objective as specified in the EUSBSR latest adopted Action Plan:
Improved global competitiveness of the Baltic Sea Region.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO87) Organisations cooperating across borders: 4.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSBSR

EUSBSR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSBSR Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A Estonia-Latvia

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-04

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

66 / 53 (124.53%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

284 / 240 (118.33%)

Notes on the data

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Knowledge-driven Baltic Cider Production and Branding for Growth and Competitiveness of SMEs.

Description

Thematic information

Partners (4)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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