Blas na hÉireann 2026 finalists announced, and it’s a standout year for Louth producers

The finalists for Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards 2026, have been announced, with ​9 exceptional producers from Co. Louth making it through to the final stage of Ireland’s most prestigious food awards.

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 1st October to Sunday 4th October, with the Blas Village, Showcase, Eat Ireland in a Day market and the awards themselves will be announced on Friday 2nd October.

Now in its 19th 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 number of food and drink categories has also increased from 170 to over 200 this year. Bronze, silver and gold awards are presented across the food and drink categories, alongside major accolades including Supreme Champion, supported by Bord Bia and Best Artisan Producer, supported by the LEO Network. The judging, which took place over 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 finalists shortlisted from Co. Louth across a wide range of categories are Bryan Lynch Salads, Carlingford Oyster Company, Coole Farm, Fierce Mild Brewing Limited, Hilton Foods Ireland, Irish Smok'd Meats, McCloskey's Bakery, Muchgrange Farm Gelato and Nature's Best.

"We are delighted to see such strong representation from Co. Louth among the finalists in Blas na hÉireann 2026." said Nikki Cambell, Head of Enterprise, LEO Louth. "These producers are excellent ambassadors for our county, demonstrating the innovation, quality and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to drive Louth's thriving food and drink sector. Reaching the finalist stage of these prestigious national awards is a significant achievement, particularly in such a competitive year, and is a testament to the hard work, passion and dedication behind each business. Our finalists have worked tirelessly to develop exceptional products and build businesses that showcase the very best of Louth's food and drink offering. LEO Louth is proud to support the growth and development of food producers across the county, and we are thrilled to see their achievements recignised on a national stage. We congratulate all of this year's finalists and look forward to cheering them on in Dingle this October."

"It’s been another exceptional year for Blas na hÉireann," said Blas na hÉireann Chairperson Artie Clifford. "The quality and creativity of this year's entries have been outstanding, showcasing the talent, innovation and dedication of food and drink producers across Ireland. Blas is all about celebrating these producers and giving them the recognition they deserve, and we look forward to welcoming them to Dingle this October."

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 2026 finalists can showcase their products, connect with buyers, and meet with fellow producers, media and food lovers from across the country. With producer education and growth at the forefront once again, this year’s event will continue to build on its community support for producers and support a more conscious future for Irish food.

Continuing this focus on education and collaboration, The Backyard at Blas, supported by Bank of Ireland, will return this year as an integral part of the Blas experience. Bringing together inspiring speakers and fellow producers, it offers a dedicated space for learning and networking.

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 Irish food so special.