Stonewell Cider wins three Blas na hÉireann medals
Stonewell Cider is celebrating another successful year at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards in Dingle, taking home two Gold medals and a Bronze for its Stonewell Medium Dry, Rós and Cask ciders.
For Stonewell, the investment represents an important next step in the development of the business and a commitment to continuing to produce premium Irish cider in Cork
The awards come at a significant time for the independent Cork cider producer, marking ten years since Stonewell Rós was named Supreme Champion at Blas na hÉireann in 2016.
Founded by Daniel and Geraldine Emerson in 2010, Stonewell has built its reputation on producing cider from 100% fresh Irish apple juice, without the use of concentrate or artificial additives. Sixteen years on, the company continues to produce and bottle its cider at its facility in Carrigaline, Co. Cork.
The latest awards follow a significant investment in Stonewell’s production facilities this summer, with the installation of a new bottling line at its Cork cidery.
The investment has brought bottling in-house for the first time, giving Stonewell greater control over its production process while significantly increasing capacity and efficiency.
For Stonewell, the investment represents an important next step in the development of the business and a commitment to continuing to produce premium Irish cider in Cork.
Geraldine Emerson, co-founder of Stonewell Cider, said: “Winning at Blas is always very special to us, but this year has particular significance as it is ten years since Rós was named Supreme Champion.
“To still be receiving this level of recognition a decade later means a great deal to our team.
“This has also been a very important year for Stonewell.
“Bringing bottling in-house is a significant investment for a small independent producer like us.
“It gives us much greater control and flexibility over our production and puts us in a strong position for the next stage of the business, while ensuring that quality remains at the heart of everything we do.
“From 2027, we will also be opening up capacity on the line to offer co-packing and contract bottling services to other drinks producers.
“It’s an exciting development for us and allows us to make the most of the investment we’ve made, while building another side to the Stonewell business.”
Stonewell Cider works with Irish apple growers, sourcing apples from orchards in Waterford, Tipperary and Armagh.
The fruit is pressed and fermented to create its range of ciders, with the emphasis remaining firmly on provenance, quality and the character of the Irish apple.
The recognition at Blas na hÉireann adds to a growing list of awards for Stonewell. Rós has been particularly successful in recent years and was also awarded Gold and the overall trophy for Best Flavoured Cider at the 2026 International Cider Awards.
As Stonewell looks towards its next phase of growth, the company says its focus remains unchanged: producing distinctive Irish cider from fresh Irish apples and continuing to build recognition for premium Irish cider both at home and internationally.
