Stand-out year for Wexford as 18 producers through to finals of Blas na hÉireann
Now in its 18th year, Blas na hÉireann continues to grow, with more than 3,000 entries submitted from across the island, and a record number of new producers taking part. The 2025 awards also see the biggest ever expansion in categories, now totalling 190, including significant growth in fast-evolving areas such as alcoholic drinks and their non-alcoholic alternatives.
The judging, which took place over May, June and July in partnership with UCC and TU Dublin, is blind-tasted and scored by a network of expert judges, including chefs, buyers, academics, restaurateurs, and industry leaders. Only the top entries from each category make it to the finalist stage, which is a huge achievement in itself.
The 18 Wexford food producers are; ABP Irish Country Meats, Bean and Goose Ltd., Elderberry Farm, Eurospar Bunclody, Kennedys Butchers Bunclody, Killiane Castle Honey, Killowen Farm, Mór Taste, Naturally Cordial Ltd., O'Neills Dry Cure Bacon Co., Ryans Bakery Wexford Ltd., Saltrock Dairy, Sean Stafford Bakeries Ltd., Stable Diet, Wexford Home Preserves, Wexford Sea Salt, Zaeire Artisan Chocolates and Zanna Cookhouse. Ltd.
'It's been an exciting year for the Blas na hÉireann awards,' says Blas na hÉireann Chairperson Artie Clifford. 'That's not just in terms of the ever-growing number of entries, but in the incredible standard of produce from both long-standing producers and impressive newcomers. We've also seen huge innovation across all categories, which reflects the evolving landscape of Irish food and drink. For us, these awards are about championing the producers, and giving them the spotlight they deserve in Dingle each October. We can't wait to welcome them.'
This year's Blas na hÉireann weekend will see the return of the hugely popular Eat Ireland in a Day market and the Blas Village, where 2025 finalists can showcase their products, connect with buyers, and meet with fellow producers, media and food lovers from across the country. With sustainability at the forefront once again, this year's event will continue to build on its environmentally friendly policies and support a more conscious future for Irish food.
"Making it as a finalist is no small achievement. The competition intensifies every year, and the producers shortlisted really do represent the crème de la crème of Irish food and drink. The Blas na hÉireann awards weekend in Dingle is a celebration of great food, and of the people, passion and place that make that Irish food so special,' he added.
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