Oscar of the sausage world goes to Ireland for second win in a row

IRISH SAUSAGES have won a top award for the second year in a row in a European championships for sausage and pudding makers.

Ashbourne-based butcher Hugh Maguire was crowned European champion for his version of the traditional breakfast sausage by France’s “Commanderie des Fins Goustiers du Duché d’Alencon” in its annual awards.

The Normandy-based group is dedicated to the promotion and recognition of the highest quality meat products from Europe.

Last year, Donegal brothers Ernan and Diarmuid McGettigan won the creative sausage award for their hickory and maple pork sausage. This year they won the Grand Prix d’Honneur in the same category.

A host of Irish butchers were honoured in this year’s competition. Mr Maguire said it was wonderful to see Irish butchers being recognised on the European stage as the European awards were like the Oscars of the sausage world.

“There were over 700 entries so it is a fantastic achievement. Irish sausages are the best in Europe and the best sausages in Ireland can be found in Ashbourne.”

Sausage makers Olhausen may have closed down last week but Mr Maguire said it was a very good time for craft butchers. People were returning to local produce instead of buying meat in supermarket chains. “They want healthier options. They want to talk to their butchers. Any craft butcher will tell you the same.”

For the full list of winners see finsgoustiers.com