40 producers from county Cork were shortlisted across a wide range of categories in this year’s Blas na hÉireann Awards, with 32 of them taking home coveted Blas awards following an awards weekend that ran from Thursday 2nd to Sunday, 5th October in Dingle, Co Kerry.
The eagerly anticipated annual finals of Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards, are now in their 18th year and firmly established as the largest and most influential food awards on the island of Ireland.
Amongst the winners from Cork were Foxway Co t/a Silver Pail Dairy, Kepak and Leahys Open Farm. While Skeaghanore West Cork farm was awarded Best in County, proudly sponsored by Cork Local Enterprise Office.
This year, 9 producers from Co. Waterford were shortlisted across a wide range of categories, with 8 of them taking home coveted Blas awards, including Blackwater Distillery, Cocoa by Judit and Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese. Best in County was awarded to Sophie’s Taste Creations.
4 Limerick producers from a shortlist of 9, took home Blas awards, including Applewood Farm Produce Ltd t/A Ballyhoura Apple Farm. Kearney’s Home Baking Ltd. was awarded Best in County, proudly sponsored by Limerick Local Enterprise Office.
In total, 21 producers from Co. Tipperary were shortlisted, with 18 of them taking home coveted awards, including ABP Cahir, Nancys Fancies and The Apple Farm, while Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers was awarded Best in County and this year’s prestigious title Best Artisan Producer.
2025 marks another record year for Blas na hÉireann, with over 3,000 entries across more than 180 categories, reflecting the strength and diversity of Irish food and drink.
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 supported by 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.
‘EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY’
“We extend our warmest congratulations to the Cork County Winner – Skeaghanore West Cork Farm – at this year’s Blas na hÉireann awards,” said Kevin Curran, Head of Enterprise at LEO Cork North & West. “This accolade is a testament to the exceptional quality and creativity of our local Cork food producers. Their success not only brings pride to Cork but also showcases the incredible food talent and potential within Cork. The Cork County LEO’s are thrilled to see their hard work and vision recognised on such a prestigious Irish Showcase of Food”.
Sustainability once again remained a key focus this year, with the event continuing to build on its waste-free commitments and support a more conscious future for Irish food.
