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Get your free copy03 October 2016, 09:08 AM
- Cork-based Stonewell Cider was crowned the Supreme Champion at this year's Irish Food Awards for its Rós rhubarb cider
Geraldine Emerson, director of Stonewell Cider said, “We use all natural ingredients. The Rós cider has a very pure, clean taste. This award is great because it is recognition for all the work that goes into making it. We’re delighted.”
The appreciation for cider appeared to be a consistent theme at the awards, with a tie for the prize of Best Artisan category being won jointly by Tempted? Elderflower Cider and MacIvors Plum and Ginger Cider. Stonewell Cider also scooped awards in County and Province categories too.
Artie Clifford, awards chairperson said, “Ciders have done really well this year. We have had to expand the number of categories in this area. With the growth of the cider sector on the island, the producers are reacting to customer demand by developing new flavour combinations, such as Stonewell’s, which is made with rhubarb juice - it’s a stunning drink.
“This has been a strong year for so many of our producers. The bar gets raised year-on-year, pushing the producers to react accordingly and to constantly improve their offerings. This can only mean that the quality of Irish food and drink is world class.”
This was the 9th year of the awards celebrating Irish food and drink producers, which is held in Dingle in County Kerry. Judges come from a range of food backgrounds, including chefs, restaurateurs, academics, journalists, authors and caterers. More than 2,500 producers were entered in a total of 120 categories.
