Wexford Farmer wins top prize at annual malting barley excellence awards

Michael and Tom Nolan, representing Nolan Agi from Camross County Wexford was awarded the Guinness Perpetual Cup for Malting Barley Excellence, the top prize at today’s ceremony. The event celebrated the best seed producers and growers from the main barley supply regions of Ireland.  There are over 900 growers countrywide.

Established in 1954, the annual awards celebrate the craft, heritage and skill of Irish barley growers, while championing best practice and sustainability across the supply chain.

Accepting the award, Michael and Tom Nolan said; “It means a great deal for our product to be recognised with this prestigious award. Malting barley isn’t a crop that allows for shortcuts, everything has to be planned, timed, and managed with care. And, as my fellow finalists will know all too well, the elements don’t always make that easy. Having our crop acknowledged in this way genuinely reflects the thought and effort that go into it. We’re proud of what we produce, and it’s encouraging to know that the quality of our barley ends up in something enjoyed far beyond my own farm.”

The other regional growers who were shortlisted for the overall award were:

• Liam Jordan, Ballindaggin, Co. Wexford
• Bartley & Jean Holden, Glenmore, Co. Kilkenny
• Frank Buggie, Ballyrider, Stradbally Co. Laois
• Martin & Joe Deegan Kylebeg, Stradbally Co. Laois
• Michael Hayes, Belgooly, Co. Cork
• Patrick Keating, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford.
• John Lambert,  Enniscorthy. Co Wexford
• Patrick Nolan Shalom, Mortarstown, Co Carlow
• Ross Ashmore, Ballaghmore, Co Carlow
• Michael Kinsella, Marshalstown, Co. Wexford
• Jamie Murphy, Kilrush, Co. Wexford

Minister Noel Grealish said; “Today’s award is a reminder of the skill that defines Irish farming. I want to congratulate Michael and Tom Nolan on this remarkable achievement. Producing malting barley of this quality takes deep knowledge of the land, careful management, and a commitment to excellence that runs through generations.

The work of growers like the Michael and Tom is the foundation of so much of what makes Ireland’s agri-food sector strong. It is heartening to see this craft recognised here today, and I want to acknowledge all the growers who continue to raise the bar for quality, sustainability and innovation in Irish agriculture.”

Sunil Dwivedi, Operations Director at St James’ Gate Brewery said: “We at Diageo Ireland are delighted to come together with Boortmalt to host these Awards, recognising and celebrating the exceptional standards achieved by our Irish malting barley producers and suppliers.  Maintaining the quality of the barley we use at the Storehouse is essential to the character of the beer enjoyed around the world.”

“A consistent, high quality Irish supply base underpins everything we do. The dedication of growers across the country allows us to continue delivering the flavour and craftsmanship that has defined Guinness for generations. Their skill has shaped the quality and character of Guinness today, and their commitment ensures the brewing traditions at the heart of St. James’s Gate continue to thrive.”

Stuart Sands, MD for Boortmalt UK & Ireland added: “It’s a pleasure to gather at these annual awards in the Guiness Storehouse to recognise Irish malting barley growers. Achieving the exacting standards required for premium malting barley demands a unique level of commitment, skill and focus, and these finalists consistently rise to that challenge. Their work enables us to produce worldclass malt that plays a key role in brewing the iconic Guinness enjoyed by millions globally.”