Tasty award in Republic for Northern Irish juice processor

Long Meadow Cider in Northern Ireland has won a major award at one of the biggest food events in the Republic of Ireland.

Long Meadow, based at Loughgall in county Armagh, gained first prize for its Sparkling Apple Juice in a Drinks category at the Taste of Cavan food festival in county Cavan.

The Northern Irish family business, best known for its portfolio of award winning ciders, came out on top of a field of 11 entrants to lift the top award at the food event which attracted over 50,000 people.

Taste of Cavan is now recognised as among the most important and successful food and drink events in the Republic. Long Meadow was the only category winner from Northern Ireland.

Pat McKeever, who founded Long Meadow Cider with son Peter and other family members in 2013 on their farm, commenting on the latest award, says: "We are delighted with this recognition in our most important market outside Northern Ireland. It will be immensely beneficial as we build awareness of our products across the Republic."

The family sources apples from its own orchard in Armagh and cold-presses them to create ciders, juices and vinegar.

The Long Meadow Sparkling Apple Juice is made from 100 percent natural apple. The juice is free from alcohol, concentrates and is also suitable for vegetarians. It is available in 750ml and 250ml bottles. The company has also won UK Great Taste Awards and Blas na hEireann, Irish National Food Awards.

The event, which featured 130 stalls involving artisan producers, took place in Cavan Equestrian Centre, Cavan Town and featured demonstrations by leading chefs such as Richard Corrigan, Catherine Fulvio, Derry's Brian McDermott and Noel McMeel, executive head chef at the Lough Erne Resort in Enniskillen, county Fermanagh

Taste of Cavan is at the heart of a six-year strategy to develop the food and drink industry in county Cavan.

Picture: Pat McKeever, right, founder of Long Meadow Cider in Armagh, with son Peter.