Blas Finalists 2026
The finalists for the Blas na hEireann Irish Food Awards have been announced, and as usual, there is a very strong showing from Food NI members.
The awards are the largest blind-tasted ones on the island of Ireland and are now in their 19th year. More than 3000 entries were evaluated across 200 categories.
The Supreme Champion, Best Artisan and various other top winners along with the Gold, Silver and Bronze placings will be announced at an event in Dingle, Co. Kerry on Friday 2nd October, 2026.
Antrim finalists include Dale Farm, Draynes Farm and Maud’s Ice-Creams, Melting Pot Fudge, Thompson Tea, Frankie and Eileen’s Craft Gin, Dundarave Estate, Glens of Antrim and Willowbrook Foods.
Derry’s finalist Food NI members are Corndale Farm, Crawfords Rock Seaweed and Morelli Ice-Cream, while Belfast has Longbridge Drinks for their Belfast Coffee Cola and Irish Sisters Lavender Cordial.
Down provided the borage and clover honey in Paula McIntyre (with Basalt Distillery)’s Sloe Gin. Other finalists from that county are Krumb Bakery,Avondale Foods, Burren Balsamics, Irwin’s Bakery, Kingsbury Farms and Culture Bakeries.
Tyrone has placings for Cookstown, En Place Foods and Moocha Kombucha while Fermanagh’s finalist members are Cavanagh Free-Range Eggs and Kettyle Irish Meats.
Armagh’s contenders include Ballylisk of Armagh, Brownlee Preserves, Natural Umber and Abernethy Butter.
Wishing everyone luck in Dingle.
