Mastering the artisan
Blas na hÉireann celebrated Ireland’s top food and drink producers in Dingle, honouring quality, resilience and outstanding innovation
Print19 November 2025
Blas na hÉireann, the Irish food awards, recently announced this year’s winners at the four-day celebration of the best of Irish food and drink, which took place from Thursday 2 October to Sunday 5 October in the picturesque town Dingle, Co. Kerry.
Attendees and producers alike weathered the storm as Hurricane Amy took hold of the west of Ireland during the event. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the spirit of the gathering remained unshaken, showcasing resilience and dedication from everyone involved.
Over the weekend and saw first-hand how the event offered producers a chance to connect with buyers, industry experts, media, fellow producers, and food lovers, while also celebrating the people, and the talents, that make Irish food so special.
Now in its 18th year, Blas na hÉireann saw another strong year from across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the first time this year.
During the judging, which took place over June and July, over 3,000 entries were judged.
Products from every county in Ireland were entered to win bronze, silver or gold awards in over 180 food and drink categories, as well as key awards like Supreme Champion, sponsored by Bord Bia and Best Artisan Producer, sponsored by LEO Network.
This year’s finalists and winners had the opportunity to showcase their products at the Blas Village and the popular Eat Ireland in a Day market, both of which returned to Dingle alongside the annual Backyard at Blas panel discussions, in partnership with Bank of Ireland.
This year’s Supreme Champion is Bon Chocolatiers, is sponsored by Bord Bia, with Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers announced as Best Artisan Producer, sponsored by Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Network.
As the competition intensifies each year, earning the prestigious Blas badge is a major accomplishment, signifying that the shortlisted finalists and eventual winners represent the pinnacle of excellence in Irish food and drink.
Artie Clifford, chairperson at Blás na hÉireann, commented: “Every year the standard rises, and 2025 has been no exception. To see the talent from Irish producers from right across the island is wonderful, it is a real testament to the skill, creativity and resilience of Ireland’s food producers. Making it to the finalist stage alone is a huge achievement, and to win at Blas na hÉireann is something of which to be incredibly proud. Irish food and drink producers continue to go from strength to strength, and it is a joy to celebrate that strength and that community here in Dingle.”
Bon Chocolatiers crowned Blas 2025 champion
(L-R) Daniel Linehan and Georgia Quealy, Bon Chocolatiers
Festive treats, Bon Chocolatiers
Blas na hÉireann, the Irish food awards, have announced this year’s winners at the four-day celebration of the best of Irish food and drink, which took place from Thursday 2 October to Sunday 5 October in Dingle. This year’s Supreme Champion is Bon Chocolatiers, proudly sponsored by Bord Bia, with Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers announced as Best Artisan Producer, proudly sponsored by Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Network.
Supreme Champion 2025, Bon Chocolatiers was founded during lockdown in 2020 by a young couple who met at college when training to become chefs. After graduating, Georgia Quealy and Daniel Linehan worked with some of the country’s top chefs, including Garrett Byrne at Campagne and John Coffey of Thyme in Athlone. A shared passion for patisserie and chocolate then saw them doing courses with world-renowned chocolatiers, resulting in their joint venture which quickly gained recognition for its original and luxuriously delicious chocolates. From ethically sourced French, Swiss and Ghanaian chocolate to Irish butter and cream, foraged local berries, Wicklow mint and Oriel sea salt, the very best ingredients are key to everything that Georgia and Daniel do at Bon Chocolatiers. Their sumptuous creations are available online, delivered direct from their chocolate kitchen in Tullamore, as well as from Fallon & Byrne, and are also supplied to some carefully selected restaurants and hotels.
Cashel Blue was a groundbreaking Irish farmhouse cheese when it was first produced in 1984 by Louis & Jane Grubb, and over 40 years later and in the hands of the second generation, the Grubb family of the 200-acre Beechmount Farm in Tipperary, Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers are this year’s Best Artisan Producer. With an ambition to create a farmhouse cheese that “truly represents the outstanding quality of Tipperary grass-fed milk”, the multi-award-winning original blue cheese has been joined since by Crozier Blue, the only sheep’s milk blue cheese in the country, by Cashel Blue Organic, and by Shepherd’s Store, a semi-hard sheep’s milk cheese. All have the same sense of terroir that was the inspiration for these groundbreaking cheeses from the outset, and are regular award-winners in Irish and international competitions. In 2004, Louis and Jane’s daughter, Sarah, and her husband Sergio Furno, became responsible for the maturing of the cheese, and are now co-owners of the business, continuing the story for the future, and the next generations who will farm and make cheese at Beechmount Farm.
“Our Supreme Champion and Best Artisan Producer cover the full fl avour spectrum,” said Blas na hÉireann chairperson, Artie Clifford. “From salty, savoury, famous blue cheese made for over 40 years, now by the second generation of the same family, to the delicate, handmade sweetness of artistic chocolates created by a young couple, setting out on their adventure in business together. 41 years ago, Louis and Jane Grubb of Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers were that young couple, taking a risk, trying something new, and in the process, creating a wonderful, groundbreaking cheese that has fans all over the world. Georgia and Daniel of Bon Chocolatiers may be at the beginning of their career in chocolate, but having examples like the Grubbs is certainly an inspiration for producers at every stage of their business journey. Blas na hÉireann is delighted to award Supreme Champion 2025 to Bon Chocolatiers and Best Artisan Producer 2025 to Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers – two producers creating exceptional products.”
This year’s finalists and winners had the opportunity to showcase their products at the Blas Village and the popular Eat Ireland in a Day market, both of which returned to Dingle alongside the annual Backyard at Blas panel discussions, in partnership with Bank of Ireland. The weekend offered producers a chance to connect with buyers, industry experts, media, fellow producers, and food lovers, while also celebrating the people, and the talents, that make Irish food so special.
Centra named number one convenience retailer for Blas na hÉireann
(L-R) Liz and Dermot Skehan, Fresh Cut Foods
Centra’s Irish food producers have claimed 23 awards at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards. The awards, announced on Friday, 3 October, saw Centra producers take home the most awards in the convenience market.
Celebrating and recognising the finest Irish food and drink products, Blas na hÉireann awards are the largest blind tasting event of quality Irish products on the island, with producers nationwide competing for the prestigious accolades.
The big wins include: six products from the Inspired by Centra range, including Inspired By Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice by Sunshine Juice (Gold). Inspired By Centra Berry Coulis with Yogurt and Granola by Freshcut Foods (Silver) and Inspired By Centra Yule Log by Couverture Desserts Ltd (Silver). The Inspired by Centra range is expertly created to bring customers a range with value in mind without compromising on taste or quality.
Key award winners from the Centra range include Centra Streaky Smoked Rashers by Oliver Carty Ltd (Silver), Centra Sriracha Quick Fry Steak by Dawn Meats (Silver) and Centra Strawberry Kefir by Clona Dairy Products Ltd (Silver)
Speaking about the awards, Luke Hanlon, managing director of Centra, stated, “As Ireland’s leading convenience retailer, we are proud to bring customers the very best of Irish produce. The success of our trusted suppliers, who have earned 23 accolades at this year’s awards, is a strong reflection of this commitment. The Blas accreditation is further recognition of the quality behind Centra’s products, sourced from trusted Irish suppliers and available across our nationwide network of Centra stores.”
Now in its 18th year, Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards sees competition from a range of top-quality Irish producers across 32 counties.
ARYZTA wins Bronze at Blas na hÉireann
The ARYZTA team claiming their Bronze award at Blas na hÉireann
Tesco Tomato & Herb Sourdough Bloomer
ARYZTA Ireland has been awarded Bronze at the 2025 Blas na hÉireann – The Irish Food Awards, the largest food awards on the island, celebrating the best from all thirty-two counties. This year saw over 3,000 entries and many new producers joining the competition.
Its Tesco Finest Sweet Tomato & Herbs Sourdough Bloomer stood out for its Mediterranean-inspired flavours, combining sweet tomatoes and a fragrant blend of herbs in a soft, tangy sourdough loaf. Crafted with a perpetual sourdough starter from California and nurtured daily in Dublin, this recognition is a testament to its team’s passion for quality and innovation.
ARYZTA took this opportunity to extend “a huge congratulations to everyone involved in bringing this product to life. Also, we would like to thank Blas na hÉireann for this honour, and to the Tesco Ireland team for its continued support and collaboration.
Cocoa by Judit strikes gold at Blas na hÉireann
Cocoa by Judit award-winning, handcrafted chocolates collection
Cocoa by Judit calim gold at the awards
Founder and chocolatier Judit McNally has combined her passion for flavour with the finest local ingredients to create awardwinning chocolates proudly made in Waterford. Her Gold Medal win at Blas na hÉireann celebrates a handcrafted collection that showcases the very best of West Waterford’s produce – from home-grown fruits and berries to ingredients sourced from neighbouring producers, distillers and farms.
Inspired by the seasons and the abundance of her own back garden, Judit creates smallbatch chocolates that balance artistry with sustainability. Each piece reflects her deep respect for traditional chocolate craftsmanship and the natural flavours that define the region.
Drawing on over twenty years’ experience in confectionery and baking, including international training in Sweden, Judit established Cocoa by Judit with a focus on authenticity, quality, and community. Her creations have quickly become recognised for their elegance, taste, and storytelling – a reflection of both her skill and her love for her home in Waterford.
Rooted in place, passion, and pride, Cocoa by Judit continues to put Waterford chocolate on the national stage.
Visit: www.cocoabyjudit.ie
Insta | @cocoa_by_judit
G’s Gourmet Jams wins Gold at Blas na hÉireann for Cranberry & Orange Sauce
G’s Gourmet Jams winning gold at Blas na hÉireann
It’s another golden moment for G’s Gourmet Jams, the Abbeyleix based artisan producer, which has taken home Gold at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards for its Cranberry & Orange Sauce.
The award-winning sauce combines the tartness of cranberries and the zesty brightness of orange resulting in a rich, flavourful sauce that continues to stand out each festive season and attract loyal repeat customers year after year.
Helen Gee, founder of G’s Gourmet Jams, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to win Gold for our Cranberry & Orange Sauce. It’s one of those products that perfectly captures what we stand for; high quality ingredients, genuine homemade quality, and real flavour. This recognition means a lot, especially knowing how well cranberry sauces perform in stores each Christmas.”
With over 25 years in business, G’s Gourmet Jams has built a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and taste. The family-run company supplies a full range of jams, marmalades, chutneys, and sauces to retailers and foodservice partners nationwide. Every product is made with 100% natural ingredients – staying true to the brand’s ethos of honest, homemade goodness.
As demand for authentic Irish-made condiments continues to grow, this latest accolade rea rms G’s Gourmet Jams’ position as a trusted supplier, delivering products that combine heritage, innovation, and strong shelf appeal.
Grá Chocolates: Crafted with love, celebrated at Blas na hÉireann
Grá Chocolates, the luxury handmade chocolate brand from Galway, is celebrating a trio of prestigious honours at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Awards in Dingle including Gold for the Orange Hot Chocolate, Silver for the Dubai Heart, and the Best in County Galway award.
Founded by award-winning pastry chef Gráinne Mullins, Grá Chocolates has become synonymous with craftsmanship, creativity, and connection. Each chocolate is a miniature work of art hand-painted and lovingly made in small batches at the brand’s Galway factory, using the finest Irish ingredients and ethically sourced chocolate.
In a remarkable twist, Grá’s Gold-winning Orange Hot Chocolate was recognised before it had even launched as a product. Now officially available on the Grá website, it arrives on shelves as an award-winning indulgence from day one, a velvety blend of rich cocoa and natural orange zest that perfectly balances comfort and sophistication.
“Our goal has always been to share love through chocolate,” says founder Gráinne Mullins. “To receive recognition at Blas na hÉireann, especially Best in County Galway, means so much to us. These awards celebrate not only our products but also the passion and dedication of our entire team and the incredible Irish producers we collaborate with.”
Winning at Blas na hÉireann, Ireland’s most respected food awards, is a true mark of quality and authenticity. For Grá Chocolates, it’s a reflection of the love, artistry, and Irish spirit poured into every creation.
Discover more at www.grachocolates.com or follow @gra_chocolates on social media.
O’Donnells crisps have had another awardwinning year in 2025 with recent wins at the Blas na hÉireann, Irish Food Awards 2025
(L-R) Kate and Ed O’Donnell
O’Donnell’s Crinkle Cut Furrows
O’Donnells Mature Cheese & Red Onion flavour secured a Silver award. Mature Cheese & Red Onion crisp is the original creation from the O’Donnell family in 2010, boasting the creamy flavour of mature Irish cheddar from The Little Milk Company blended with the sweet, mellow hit of red onion. The Little Milk Company Mature Cheddar is an award-winning organic cheese which is handmade and turned using creamy organic cow’s milk from the Tipperary townland of Kilsheelan.
O’Donnells Crinkle Cut Ballymaloe Relish and Cheese flavour proudly received a Bronze award. Bringing together two Irish greats like Ballymaloe relish and O’Donnells crisps, something special happens. The rich tangy flavour of Ballymaloe relish is perfectly balanced with a hit of creamy Irish cheddar delivering a true taste sensation. The grooves within the crinkle cut crisps envelop the unmistakable flavour and deliver real crunch.
This follows O’Donnells’ recent success at the Great Taste Awards 2025, where the brand secured seven accolades – including two coveted two-star honours – making it the most awarded Great Taste crisp brand across Ireland and the UK this year.
Building on this success, O’Donnells has recently launched its latest flavour sensation: O’Donnells Hot Honey Fusion.
Alongside the launch of the highly anticipated Hot Honey Fusion flavour, O’Donnells are proud to spotlight the inspiration behind this bold new addition, a Tipperary neighbour; Rívesci. Shannon Forrest and Declan Malone of Rívesci are no stranger to Blas na hÉireann awards; Rívesci were crowned Supreme Champion in 2024. Taking cues from the rich, spicysweet profile of Dec’s Hot Honey from Rívesci, Hot Honey Fusion offers a unique snacking experience that pays homage to Irish innovation and flavour. As fellow members of the Tipperary Food Producers Network, O’Donnells and Rívesci celebrate the spirit of Irish craftsmanship, supporting local producers and delivering high-quality, culinary creations to customers across the country.
O’Donnells Hot Honey Fusion taps into the growing popularity of the hot honey flavour trend, expertly blending fiery spice with smooth, natural honey sweetness. Each crisp offers a bold, tantalising kick followed by a rich, mellow finish of the honey, creating a truly memorable flavour experience. Designed for sharing, this snack brings friends and family together with every satisfying, crunchy bite.
O’Donnell’s crisps remain proudly glutenfree and vegetarian-friendly, made without artificial colours, flavours, MSG, or GM ingredients.
The Hot Honey Fusion flavour is available nationwide in 44g and 125g sharing bags.
Irish butchery excellence celebrated in Dingle at Blas na hÉireann
The rich tradition of Irish butchery was celebrated in Dingle, with three Irish Butchers’ Guild members recognised at the prestigious Blas na hÉireann Awards.
McCarthy’s of Kanturk were awarded the distinguished Chef’s Larder Award, sponsored by Bord Bia, for their outstanding Smoked North Cork Pancetta. A delighted Tim McCarthy said “We are truly honoured to receive the Chef’s Larder Award at Blas na hÉireann. Our Smoked North Cork Pancetta is a product that reflects generations of tradition, craft, and pride in what we do and it’s a credit to the hard work of our family and team”. McCarthy’s is an iconic family-owned butcher with a storied heritage dating back to 1892. Through five generations, they have mastered the art of crafting exceptional meats, earning international acclaim for their quality products.
Murphy’s Craft Butchers of Tullow claimed two Gold Awards for it’s innovative Black Charcoal Ribeye Steak and Chicken Italiano. A delighted Jim Murphy said “It’s a real honour to have our products recognised on such a respected stage, and it reflects the hard work, passion, and craft that goes into everything we do. At the end of the day, it’s about bringing our customers something truly special”. Murphy Craft Butchers, established in 1909, is a family-owned business with a legacy spanning five generations of Master Butchers.
Bergin Family Butchers, The Food Yard in Naas earned a Silver Award for it’s signature 12 hour slow cooked featherblade with creamy mash in the Ready Meals Category. Mark Bergin expressed his delight on receiving their award. He said: “We are absolutely delighted to win a Silver Award at Blas na hÉireann. It’s a reflection of the care, craft, and commitment our family puts into everything we do, and we’re thrilled to bring this award back to Naas for our customers.” Bergin Family Butchers, based in The Food Yard, Naas, are renowned for their craft, quality produce, and commitment to bringing customers the very best in Irish butchery.
These successes highlight the remarkable skill, craftsmanship, and commitment to quality that define Irish butchery today, with customers across the country reaping the benefits.
Noble by Nice Ice Cream – Small-batch dreams, big on honesty
Noble by Nice Ice Cream range
From Ballina beginnings to Roscommon recognition, a family brand proves that craft still matters.
From its start in Ballina, Co. Mayo to its new production home in Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, husband-and-wife duo Alexander and Juliya have grown Noble into one of Ireland’s most exciting artisan ice cream brands.
Every flavour is created entirely from scratch, using fresh Irish milk and cream, premium raw ingredients, and a clean-label, minimal-process method. No flavour pastes, no industrial bases – just genuine food craftsmanship in every batch. It’s a traditional way of making ice cream that’s increasingly rare in today’s market, where most rely on pre-mixed formulations.
At this year’s Blas na hÉireann 2025, Noble’s Mango Sorbet took Silver, Chocolate Ice Cream earned Bronze, and Raspberry Sorbet reached the finals – with the brand also named Best in County Roscommon and honoured as Best Start Up 2025.
“We simply wanted ice cream. We’d be proud to serve our kids,” says Alexander. “When people taste it and say, ‘that’s real,’ we know we’ve hit the mark.” Rooted in Mayo and thriving in Roscommon, Noble shows that authenticity, quality and integrity remain the finest ingredients of all.
White’s Oats celebrates silver success at Blas na hÉireann 2025
Whites Quick & Oaty range
White’s Oats, Ireland’s largest oat miller and cereal producer, is celebrating success at the 2025 Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards, proudly taking home silver for its Quick & Oaty Berry flavour instant Oat Sachets.
Now in its 18th year, the awards are regarded as Ireland’s premier food and drink event, recognising the very best of Irish produce.
In addition to being awarded Silver, the Co. Armagh based oat miller was shortlisted for four products across its portfolio. This recognition underscores the company’s dedication to crafting wholesome, greattasting oats that combine convenience, nutrition, and natural flavour.
Danielle McBride, marketing manager at White’s Oats, said: “We are delighted to receive a silver award at this year’s Blas na hÉireann. It is a real testament to the passion and care that goes into every White’s Oats product. We are extremely proud to be recognised among Ireland’s fi nest food producers and to continue our commitment to celebrating the best of homegrown Irish produce through quality, innovation, and great-tasting oats.”
Renowned for its multi award-winning range of porridge oats, granolas, and instant oat products, White’s continues to lead the way in oat innovation, delivering high-quality, sustainable breakfast solutions to meet evolving consumer needs. Milled from locally grown Irish Porridge Oats, White’s Quick & Oaty range provides a quick, nourishing start to the day, without compromising on taste or texture.
Avoca wins six Blas na hÉireann awards
Avoca Rice Krispmas Tree
Avoca, Ireland’s leading lifestyle retail destination, is thrilled to have landed six Blas na hÉireann medals this year across its own brand retail and beloved café products.
Avoca’s irresistible Mini Peanut Butter & Dark Chocolate Bites, ‘deliciously creamy’ Original Butter Fudge and the innovative Rice Krispmas Tree all secured the highly coveted gold awards, an achievement the team is incredibly proud of. The perfectly indulgent Pecan & Caramel Cheesecake received a silver medal alongside Avoca’s zingy Lemon Curd, a must for home bakers looking to create delectable treats in their own kitchens. Rounding out the win with a bronze is Avoca’s Meringue Roulade with Fresh Raspberries & Cream, available by the slice in Avoca cafés across the country or as a full roulade to take home and enjoy. The awards are a true testament to the creativity, craft and dedication of the Avoca Food Team, who strive to bring exceptional quality and innovation to customers with every bite.
Avoca has 13 stores across Ireland and is also available to shop online at Avoca.com.
Tesco Ireland takes pride in exceptional year at Blas na hÉireann Awards
Victory is sweet (and savoury)
Tesco Ireland is paying special tribute to its supplier network after an outstanding performance at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards. With 84 accolades across 29 suppliers, Tesco Ireland has once again emerged as the most awarded retailer at the prestigious event, for the second consecutive year.
Now in its 18th year, Blas na hÉireann is Ireland’s largest celebration of food and drink, highlighting the innovation, quality, and craftsmanship of producers nationwide. This year, 137 Tesco own-label products from 41 suppliers were shortlisted, with 26 gold, 26 silver, and 27 bronze medals awarded, alongside five Chef’s Larder wins.
Among the standout winners were:
- Tesco Finest 5 Thick Cut Hickory Smoked Dry Cured Irish Rashers (Gold), produced by Hilton Foods
- Tesco Finest Feta & Spring Vegetable Focaccia (Silver), produced by Crust & Crumb
- Tesco Finest Vintage Irish White Cheddar (Bronze), produced by Bandon Vale
- Tesco Irish Parsley, which earned a Chef’s Larder award, produced by O’Hanlon Herbs
As the world’s largest retail buyer of Irish food and drink, Tesco Ireland works with over 500 Irish suppliers to bring local excellence to shelves nationwide. The retailer’s continued success at Blas na hÉireann reflects its deep commitment to supporting Irish producers and delivering quality and value to customers.
With this year’s results, Tesco Ireland reaffirms its leadership in championing Irish food and supporting the future of Irish suppliers for generations to come.
Blynk launches functional mushroom drink range
Blynk+ range
Blynk Drinks is a functional beverage brand powered by Mushrooms and founded by serial entrepreneur David Hartigan & Stephen Dillion. At Blynk+ it believes you shouldn’t have to choose between great tasting drinks and supporting your health goals. This is why it created its great tasting beverages with benefits.
Designed for modern lifestyles, Blynk+ blends science, nature, and great taste into convenient, lightly sparkling drinks that support focus, calm, and Healthy Energy.
Its drinks contain a unique combination of natural ingredients, Functional mushrooms, adaptogens, vitamins, and minerals to help balance both body and mind.
The flagship products include Blynk+ Calm, a blackberry and lemon balm drink infused with Reishi, magnesium, and B vitamins to ease stress and promote relaxation, and Blynk+ focus, an apple and chamomile drink infused with Lions mane, Zinc and B Vitamins to support cognitive functions. Its latest addition to the range Blynk+ Healthy energy is a orange & Mango drink infused with cordyceps Sinensis, KSM-66 Ashwagandha Extract, B Vitamins and natural caffeine from Yerba mate to support lasting energy
At Blynk, it believes beverages should do more. That’s why its committed to clean labels, low calorie, low sugar, no artificial additives, and environmentally responsible packaging. Every can is crafted to taste refreshing while supporting your wellbeing — helping you to live, think, and feel your best, one Blynk at a time.
Kefircoffee wins Gold at Blas na hÉireann 2025 and leads a new era in functional, sustainable coffee
Irish coffee innovation took centre stage as Kefircoffee was awarded Gold at the Blas na hÉireann Awards 2025, the nation’s most prestigious food and drink competition. Recognised in the Hot Beverages – Coffee (Single Origin) category, Kefircoffee impressed judges with its smoothness, natural sweetness, and antioxidant-rich profile, achieved through its proprietary clean-label process, which enhances coffee’s natural health compounds – without additives or preservatives.
Following this national success, Kefircoffee also earned two international honours at the World Coffee Innovation Awards 2025 in London – Winner in the Functional Coffee category and Finalist for Technology Innovation.
Developed by founder Myles Garland, Kefircoffee is the world’s first clean-label, full-coffee functional beverage, introducing a new first-step process for roasters that naturally boosts bioactive compounds. Independent testing by Teagasc, Ireland’s national food research authority, confirmed significant increases in chlorogenic acids, polyphenols, and trigonelline, with caffeine unchanged.
Pioneering a low-waste, circular-economy approach, Kefircoffee repurposes naturally occurring sugars within green coffee beans to create added value – improving sustainability while elevating flavour and function.
Kefircoffee delivers a smoother, more sustainable, and naturally functional cup of coffee, positioning Ireland at the forefront of global clean-label coffee innovation.
Richmond wins Gold for Irish Liqueur
Richmount Cordials is a small, artisan beverage company, trading since 2014 and run by husband-and-wife team, David and Martina Burns.
Their main products are Elderflower Cordial, Sparkling Elderflower drinks and Elderberry Cordial and the latest addition to its range, Richmount Irish Elderflower Liqueur, the only Irish-produced elderflower liqueur, won Gold at this year’s Blas. David told us “This is a marvellous affirmation of the quality of our Richmount Irish Elderflower Liqueur, to be recognised as Gold standard means so much to us.”
Martina and David grow elderflowers and elderberries on seven acres on their third-generation farm in Richmount, Co. Longford, which are harvested and made into premium, small-batch cordials and carbonated drinks. During the short blossoming period in June, the elderflowers are hand-picked and infused within a couple of hours and this hands-on approach ensures Martina and David have ultimate control over freshness and quality. Richmount drinks are made without the use of concentrate or artificial sweeteners, colours, or flavourings – ideal for anyone trying to avoid ultra-processed ingredients.
Its latest venture, Richmount Irish Elderflower Liqueur (20% ABV) is a uniquely Irish silky-smooth liqueur, and a worthy winner of Gold in Blas nah Éireann. It captures the authentic taste of fresh elderflowers and the very essence of summer and is perfect for sipping neat as a digestif, over ice, added to prosecco, champagne or cocktails, or makes a thoughtful gift for any drinks connoisseur,
Richmount Cordial Co. drinks and liqueur are stocked mostly in independent food stores across Ireland. For the full list, see www.richmountcordials.ie.
Rye River Brewing Company raises a glass to more wins at Blas na hÉireann 2025
Rye River Brewing Company has once again proven its brewing excellence, earning three new accolades at Blas na hÉireann 2025. Two Silver medals went to Crafty Brewing Company — brewed exclusively for Lidl — for its much-loved Irish Red Ale and Irish Craft Stout. The third accolade, a Bronze, was awarded to IBU Czech Pils, brewed exclusively for Tesco Stores. It’s already the second award for IBU Czech Pils, which only hit shelves in 2024 — an impressive start for a newcomer.
Rye River Brewing Company is Ireland’s leading independent brewery, producing world-class beers from its home in Celbridge, Co. Kildare. Now in its twelfth year of operation, the brewery employs 67 people and continues to push the boundaries of Irish brewing. In 2022, Rye River Brewing Company was named the World’s Most Decorated Brewery for the third consecutive year at the prestigious World Beer Awards — a remarkable achievement that highlights its dedication to quality, consistency, and innovation.
What sets Rye River apart is its world-class reputation, unwavering commitment to brewing excellence, and a strong focus on sustainability — values that consistently raise the bar for the industry.
The brewery’s portfolio is as diverse as it is distinctive. It includes its core Rye River Brewing Company and Rye River Seasonal ranges, as well as exclusive retail brands such as The Crafty Brewing Company, brewed for Lidl, and Grafters and IBU, produced for Dunnes Stores and Tesco respectively. Rye River Brewing Co. supplies premium beers to some of Ireland’s largest retailers and exports to 26 international markets, primarily across Europe. In 2024, the brewery proudly launched its Rye River Brewing Co. brand in the United States, further expanding its global reach.
From Kildare to the world, Rye River Brewing Company continues to lead the way for Independent Irish beer — blending passion, quality, consistency and creativity in every brew.
10 years of business – 10 years at Blas
The Village Dairy stated it was delighted to have been awarded two Blas na hÉireann awards this year for its Organic Cream and a product it makes in partnership with Dunnes Stores, Simply Better Irish Jersey Cream. It is proud to say it has placed at every Blas na hÉireann since it began producing and first entered the competition back in 2016. An achievement that is testament to all its suppliers, team members, and customers both past and present. Over the last ten years, our range which includes Fresh Milk and Cream, Organic Milk and Cream, Jersey Milk and Cream, and Buttermilk have all been awarded with the Blas na hÉireann gold, silver, or bronze standard. For a small family run dairy on the Carlow/Laois border in Killeshin it is something to celebrate. It has for the last ten years strived to produce milk and cream in a way that is a little different, highlighting the high-quality milk from equally passionate suppliers, none of which could happen without the support of our loyal customer base. The Blas na hÉireann accolades are not only an identifiable quality mark on Irish products but also helping promote and support small Irish food producers.
The Village Dairy – Where Milk Matters.
SuperValu Irish producers celebrate 96 Wins at the 2025 Blás na hÉireann Awards
(L-R) Mark Bergin, Coffee House Lane; Leigh Kelly, Zaeire; John Casey, Galmere Foods and Luke O’Donnell, Sunshine Juices
Irish Producers of SuperValu, Ireland’s largest grocery retailer, secured a remarkable number of wins across multiple categories at the prestigious Blás na hÉireann Awards. This brings the total awards achieved by SuperValu producers to 96 spanning across SuperValu Own Brand, SuperValu Signature Tastes, Food Academy and The Happy Pear ranges.
Among this year’s accolades were multiple gold, silver, and bronze awards, along with recognition in a variety of speciality categories including Chef’s Larder & Best Start Up. These wins highlight the outstanding quality and innovation of SuperValu’s Irish producers and reflect the breadth of products proudly sourced from communities across the country.
SuperValu’s Signature Tastes and Own Brand ranges stood out once again, with a strong showing across several award categories. There were 12 Gold medal winners which included standout products such as Signature Tastes Irish Organic Salmon Darnes, Signature Tastes Irish Whiskey BBQ Sauce, Signature Tastes Allenwood Cheese & Signature Tastes Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
Food Academy producers were once again outstanding winners, with producers securing 51 awards in total, with golds for Valentia Island Vermouth and Coffee House Lane’s Aikenhead blend. One of Food Academy’s newest producers starting in 2025, Nice Ice Cream from Roscommon, won The Blás na hÉireann Best Start Up as well as silver & bronze. Julia & Alexander from Odesa, have combined their passion for organic fruits and premium ingredients with high quality organic Irish milk, to create a range of exquisite ice creams & refreshing sorbets.
The Happy Pear won 6 awards with The Lovely Basil Pesto and Sweet Beet Hummus winning Golds, along with 3 Silver for The Happy Hummus, Tomato Ketchup, Sweet Potato & Squash Soup and 1 Bronze award for Spicy Red Pepper Pesto.
Luke Hanlon, managing director, SuperValu said, “2025 has been a remarkable year for SuperValu’s Irish producers at the Blás na hÉireann awards, where our local suppliers were celebrated once again for their quality, innovation, and diverse offering. Supporting homegrown talent has always been at the core of SuperValu, and it’s inspiring to see these producers receive the recognition they truly deserve. We remain committed to championing the very best of Irish food.”
Artie Clifford, chairperson at Blás na hEireann, commented: “Every year the standard rises, and 2025 has been no exception. To see the talent from Irish producers from right across the island is wonderful, it is a real testament to the skill, creativity and resilience of Ireland’s food producers. Making it to the finalist stage alone is a huge achievement, and to win at Blás is something of which to be incredibly proud. Irish food and drink producers continue to go from strength to strength, and it is a joy to celebrate that strength and that community here in Dingle.”
SuperValu has long championed locally, Irish-sourced food and drink, working with more than 1,800 suppliers, and this year’s wins further emphasise the variety and excellence across all categories: from meats and dairy to innovative new products.
Now in its 18th year, the Blás na hÉireann awards celebrates the very best food and drink from across the island of Ireland. With thousands of entries spanning over 180 categories, it is recognised as an industry gold standard, where products are blind tasted by expert chefs, restaurateurs, academics, and journalists. SuperValu’s continued success at the awards underscores the retailer’s commitment to championing the highest quality Irish food and drink.
Waldron Family Meats wins Blas na hÉireann Gold
Waldron Family Meats collecting Gold at the Blas na hÉireann awards
Waldron Family Meats is absolutely delighted to have won Gold at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Awards for our New Product – Bacon Medallions with Cream of Parsley Sauce. This recognition means the world to those involved, as it celebrates the passion, care, and craftsmanship that define everything we do at Waldron Family Meats.
Its Bacon Medallions with Cream of Parsley Sauce showcase the very best of Irish produce – tender, flavoursome bacon complemented by a rich, creamy parsley sauce. It’s a product born from our dedication to quality, innovation, and tradition, and it is thrilled to see it so warmly received by the judges at Ireland’s most prestigious food awards.
This Gold award is a proud moment for our entire team – from its skilled butchers and product developers to everyone who helps bring its ideas to life. It reflects its shared commitment to excellence and our ongoing mission to craft delicious, wholesome foods that our customers can trust and enjoy.
It extends its heartfelt thanks to our loyal customers and supporters, whose encouragement drives us forward every day. Winning Gold at Blas na hÉireann truly inspires it to continue celebrating the best of Irish food through every product it creates.
Gold again for Zaeire Artisan Chocolates
Leigh Kelly of Zaeire Artisan Chocolates was blown away by her Gold at this year’s Blas na hEireann Awards. It was its Hazelnut Pralines that won in the Individual Chocolate Category. It was described as an “honour” for Leigh Kelly to bring back the award to Bridgetown, Co. Wexford the second year running.
The quality and calibre of artisan chocolatiers in the country has gone through the roof in the recent years.
The last year has been a very difficult place to be in the chocolate world. Due to really bad weather conditions, cacao crops have been badly damaged or totally destroyed, driving up the price of chocolate by more than 120%. It has been a juggle to keep the show on the road, but with perseverance and determination it has continued to do what it loves … “Delivering happiness – one chocolate at a time!”
Leigh is grateful to everybody that supports Zaeire, saying “your support is now more important than ever.”
So this Gold Award is for each and every one of you and also its amazing small female team – Nicola and Frances.
Its products are available in select retailers, direct from its shop or online at www.zaeire.com
Elderberry Farm wins at Blas na hÉireann
Elderberry Farm Gráinne’s Granola range
Elderberry Farm has established itself as a notable presence in the artisan food sector, earning a bronze Blas na hÉireann award for “Gráinne’s Granola” this year, making it a two-time recipient of this prestigious acknowledgement. In 2024, they also received a bronze medal for “Aggie’s Dandelion Lemonade,” with their “Carrot Leaf and Pecan Nut Pesto” ranking among the top five entries. Remarkably, Elderberry Farm has achieved significant success and multiple accolades in under three years of operation. Founder and owner Gráinne Kenneally Quirke attributes their accomplishments to their unwavering commitment to the quality, authenticity, and integrity of their products.
Located just outside Gorey in County Wexford, Elderberry Farm is a small, emerging business specialising in artisan cordials, syrups, jams, jellies, chutneys, pestos, hummus, tapenades, and granola. The majority of raw ingredients, such as elderberry, elderflower, dandelion, crab apples, rosehips, haw berries, blackberries, and sloes, are foraged locally. Where foraged ingredients are not available, they prioritise sourcing locally grown fruit, including pears, rhubarb, and beetroot, striving to support local suppliers whenever possible.
Elderberry Farm’s philosophy centres on zero waste and sustainability, principles that have resonated with both customers and retailers alike and has played a central role in product development, contributing to the high quality and superior taste of their offerings. Priding themselves on small-batch, home-cooked methods their aim is to ensure consistent excellence and customer satisfaction. A deposit return scheme is also available for all glass bottles, reinforcing their commitment to environmental responsibility.
Elderberry Farm products are stocked in all farm shops across County Wexford and other select artisan outlets. Additionally, they can be found on a weekly basis at farmers markets. They also attend trade and agricultural shows throughout the year.
Fierce Mild wins Gold at Blas na hÉireann
Fierce Mild Non-Alc
Launched in 2024 by brothers-in-law and childhood friends Fergal Carroll and Cathal Byrne, the Louth-based brewery is Ireland’s first independent producer dedicated exclusively to non-alcoholic beer. Fierce Mild Brew Things Differently, using a specialised yeast that naturally limits fermentation, meaning there’s no need to strip out alcohol, or flavour, after brewing. A premium, Irish non-alcoholic beer made with five natural ingredients, no additives, and only 49 calories per bottle.
Speaking about the win, Fergal said: “Winning Gold at Blas na hÉireann is massive for us. It’s recognition that Irish-made non-alcoholic beer belongs among the country’s best food and drink producers.”
This national recognition marks another milestone in what has been a defining year for the brewery. A 2025 Food Works participant (Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland, Teagasc), Fierce Mild has also earned major accolades, including wins at The Pitch 2025 (Image Media, Samsung Ireland), the inaugural Taste of TV Fund (Love Irish Food, Sky Media), and the only Gold medal awarded in the No/Low Alcohol category at the 2025 Irish Quality Food & Drink Award. The brewery was also named among The Irish Times’ “Innovators to Watch 2025,” further underscoring its impact on Ireland’s evolving drinks landscape.
With its new TV campaign now live on Sky, Fierce Mild is redefining what non-alcoholic beer can be – fierce on flavour, mild on alcohol, and full of character. Now pouring in 350+ venues nationwide and available in Tesco, Dunnes Stores, Avoca, Fallon & Byrne, and online.
hello@fiercemild.beer | @_fiercemild | www.fiercemild.co
ALDI secures 48 Blas na hÉireann awards
Irish Angus Rib Roast
ALDI and its team of Irish suppliers and producers enjoyed outstanding success at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards, walking away with 48 awards across multiple categories, including 17 gold medals, 16 silver medals and 15 bronze medals, showcasing ALDI’s commitment to supporting Irish suppliers and offering customers the best quality food.
This year, ALDI’s gold medal-winning products were produced by Oakpark Foods, ABP Cahir, Annalitten Foods Ltd, Do me a Flavour – VOA Foods Unlimited Company, Wonderfoods Ltd, Cookie Dó, Kestrel Foods, Folláin, Armagh Cider Company and Pearse Lyons Brewery to name a few – highly valued Irish suppliers whom ALDI is proud to collaborate with all year round.
Among the standout winners was the Specially Selected Irish Wagyu Rib Eye Joint with Irish Atlantic Sea Salt and Cracked Black Pepper Infused Beef Marrow, which was awarded a prestigious gold medal in the Beef- Roast category and holds its gold standard title from the awards in 2024. This product is produced exclusively for ALDI by ABP Cahir.
Speaking about this year’s Blas na hÉireann wins, John Curtin, group buying director at ALDI Ireland said: “We’re thrilled to see so many of our Irish-made products celebrated at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards. At ALDI, we take great pride in working with exceptional local producers across the country to bring our customers the highest-quality Irish produce. Our success at these awards reflects their dedication, creativity, and commitment to excellence. On behalf of everyone at ALDI, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to our suppliers and buying teams for this outstanding recognition.”
Naturally Cordial shines at Blas na hÉireann awards
Naturally Cordial winning at Blas na hÉireann
Naturally Cordial were absolutely thrilled to be awarded Gold, Silver and Bronze for their fruit based cordials at Blas na hEireann 2025. Known for using local ingredients where they can and combining them with organic citrus fruits or other exotic fruits, Naturally Cordial creates unusual flavours that allow the fruit flavours to shine. Based in the sunny South-East, it was no surprise that Wexford strawberries and Irish raspberries were ingredients in the winning flavours: Lemon & Raspberry; Strawberry, Cucumber & Lime; and Strawberry & Passionfruit. Naturally Cordial flavours are ideal for mixing with still or sparkling water for delicious drinks for everyone or for using in place of sugar syrups for adventurous cocktails and mocktails or even for heating with spices as an alternative non-alcoholic mulled wine or hot whiskey. See our website www://naturallycordial.ie for recipes. As more people are drinking less alcohol and looking for non-alcoholic alternatives, Naturally Cordial is a premium, artisan product that makes the perfect drink for all your guests.
Sunshine Juice wins three Blas na hÉireann awards
Sunshine Juice happily claiming its accolades at Blas na hÉireann
Sunshine Juice are based in Tinryland, County Carlow, founded by local man Paul Walshe in the 90’s. It prides itself on using Irish ingredients when in season to produce the best product possible, fortunately, it is able to use Irish apples from Tipperary all year round. It loves to support its local community by giving back through sponsoring local GAA teams. It was delighted to receive three awards this year, the best in county award for carlow, gold in best fruit juices for our “SuperValu signature tastes orange juice” and gold in best vegetable juices for our “Veg Out Boost”.
Related Articles
Dunnes holds steady as Ireland’s top grocer →
Followers 0
Fans 0
Followers