Food lecturer John Crowe, who runs Carrick Foods based in Derry, picked up a up a highly prized 2-stars in the prestigious Great Taste Awards.
Judges described the loaf as having a “rich natural flavour” which was “above and beyond” delicious.
John said he was thrilled to have won the award adding that it was a dream come true.
He said: “I am so proud to be adding the prestigious black and gold Great Taste badge of honour to our rich dark succulent stout & date wheaten loaf (Stout City Loaf).
“Being recognised with a Great Taste 2-stars means so much to independent producers such as myself, as it makes all the hard work and determination worth it! Great Taste is the most recognised accolade for taste and quality in the food and drink industry, so it’s a huge moment.
“Our Stout City loaf uses the finest grade flours combined with the natural sweetness of rich caramel scented dried fruits.
“To contrast this, we sourced a locally crafted creamy oyster Stout (Foyster) from The Wall City Brewery.
“I have kept my childhood memories with me throughout my career, enjoying the connection with food, a sense of pride crafting, and creating food products that satisfy people’s hungers and desires.
“So when I had the opportunity to develop these products it felt so right, natural and true, both to look back, but also looking forward.
“My journey has now come full circle culminating in the creation of these bespoke artisan food creations under the Carrick Foods brand reminding me that foods is rooted in traditions, flavours & family.”
Great Taste is a stamp of excellence organised by the Guild of Fine Food.
All products in the line-up for judging are blind tasted before entering a robust, layered judging process.
This year, judging took place over 89 days in Dorset and London, with a panel of more than 500 judges putting the products to the test.
The line-up saw food and drink products submitted from an extraordinary 109 different countries across the world.
The Stout City Loaf is available from a range of independent stores across the North West. RRP: £4.00 (400g).
For more information about Carrick Foods visit: https://tr.ee/XIiX8BldLV
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