The finalists for Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards 2025, have been announced, with nine producers from Co. Waterford making it through to the final stage of Ireland’s most prestigious food awards.
The finalists shortlisted from Co. Waterford across a wide range of categories are Blackwater Distillery, Blue Butterfly Coffee Company Ltd., Cocoa by Judit, Coffee House Lane, Dawn Meats, Irish Country Meats, Irish Gourmet Butter, Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese and Sophie's Taste Creations.
The countdown is now officially on for the return to Dingle this autumn, where the very best of Irish food and drink will be celebrated from Thursday, 2 October to Sunday, 5 October, with the Blas Village, Showcase, Eat Ireland in a Day market and the awards themselves all running on Friday, 3 October.
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 food and beverage scene in County Waterford is simply outstanding.” said Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Waterford. “With nine finalists in the Irish Food Awards, our local producers and creators are being rightfully recognised for their passion, quality, and innovation. This is a testament to the dedication of our talented producers, restaurateurs, brewers, and distillers, who make Waterford a true destination for food and drink lovers.”
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.
Photos: Fiona Morgan / Allen Kiely
