Welsh food and drink producers have once again showcased the quality of Welsh produce on the global stage, with 166 products recognised at the 2026 Great Taste Awards. Of these, 122 received a 1-star award, 36 achieved 2-stars, and eight earned the coveted 3-star accolade, reserved for products judged to be truly exceptional.
Organised by the Guild of Fine Food, Great Taste is the world's largest and most trusted food and drink accreditation scheme. More than 15,000 products from 116 countries were blind tasted by expert judges, with awards based solely on flavour, aroma, texture and overall quality.
Who judges the awards?
More than 500 food and drink experts, including chefs, buyers, food writers, retailers and producers, take part in the judging process. Specialist judges are also brought in for categories including coffee, tea, beer, cider, spirits and plant-based products.
Every product is blind tasted, meaning judges have no knowledge of the producer, branding or packaging. Entries are assessed on their own merits and may be tasted by up to 24 experts before the final scores are awarded.
What do the stars mean?
Great Taste awards are judged purely on taste and are awarded at three levels. 1-star products are recognised as simply delicious, 2-star products are considered outstanding, while the coveted 3-star award is reserved for food and drink judged to be truly exquisite and extraordinary, representing the very best of Great Taste.
What are the Great Taste Golden Forks?
All 3-star winners progress to the Great Taste Golden Fork Awards, where they are re-judged to identify the best products from each region. Regional winners then compete for the title of Great Taste Supreme Champion, the highest honour in the competition.
The continued success of Welsh producers highlights the strength, innovation and diversity of Wales' food and drink sector. From artisan makers to internationally recognised brands, Welsh businesses continue to earn acclaim for producing food and drink of outstanding quality.
