Gildernew Visits Magners

Northern Minister Michelle Gildernew visited Magner's cider production facility based at Clonmel in Co Tipperary this week.

The company has developed Ireland's fastest growing drinks brand and as a result apples for cider manufacture are in great demand.

The County Armagh Bramley apple is a very significant ingredient used in the manufacture of Magners cider as it is said to provide the right mix of sugar, tannins and acid to make the cider taste so distinctive.

Speaking during her visit to the factory and orchards, the minister said: "This is a great example of how a brand can be grown and recognized virtually worldwide.

"Magners is a truly Irish success story and I am pleased to be able to say that Armagh Bramleys have played a major part in this.

"I am sure that the business relationship between growers in the North and Magners will continue.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to encourage growers in the North to continue to look to the future of their industry.

The plant at Clonmel, Co. Tipperary produces Magners Irish cider and Bulmers Original.

Bulmers Original is sold only in the Republic of Ireland while Magners Irish cider is exported worldwide.

They also grow apples within their own orchards.

Bulmers employ around 460 staff and have recently invested 300m euros in their cider production facilities.

Between 40% and 50% of Bramley apples grown in the North were sold to Bulmers for cider production in 2006 and 2007.

It is likely that this tonnage will fall in 2008 however.