Top 5 Irish Butters

Saltrock Dairy is a family-run dairy established in 2021 on Tara Hill near Gorey in County Wexford, Ireland. The Kinsella family developed a small-batch production model based on processing milk directly on the farm. The cows graze primarily on pastures located close to the Irish Sea. The original product range consisted of fresh pasteurised milk and handmade farmhouse butter. The milk is non-homogenised, allowing the cream to rise naturally to the surface. It is sold in reusable glass bottles through a mobile trailer equipped with a self-service milk dispenser that travels around northern County Wexford. The dairy’s most recognisable product is its cultured farmhouse butter seasoned with locally harvested Wexford sea salt. During production, live cultures are added to the cream before it is churned, washed and salted by hand. The range also includes strained yoghurt that is naturally thickened in muslin cloth without industrial thickeners. Saltrock Dairy also produces kefir from the skimmed milk remaining after the cream has been separated for butter production. This approach allows the dairy to use a greater proportion of its raw material and reduce production waste. Milk is packaged in reusable bottles, while the butter is wrapped in home-compostable packaging. The products are sold directly to consumers through the online shop, at local markets and in specialist food shops.Expand

Kerrygold is one of the most well-known Irish dairy brands, recognized worldwide for its creamy butter and premium cheeses. Founded in 1961 by An Bord Bainne (now known as Ornua), Kerrygold has become synonymous with authentic dairy products made from the milk of grass-fed cows raised on Ireland’s natural pastures.

What makes Kerrygold truly special is the unmatched quality of its milk. The cows producing milk for Kerrygold graze on lush, green Irish meadows for most of the year, feeding on nutrient-rich natural grass.

This pasture-based diet gives the milk a rich flavor and contributes to the distinct golden-yellow color of Kerrygold butter. Today, Kerrygold products are available in over 100 countries worldwide, and the brand has become a symbol of premium Irish dairy excellence.

As part of Ornua, Ireland’s dairy cooperative, Kerrygold continues to bring the best of Irish dairy tradition to consumers around the globe. Enjoy the rich, natural taste of Ireland with Kerrygold – premium dairy products from the heart of Irish pastures!Expand

Glenstal Foods is an Irish dairy producer based in Murroe, County Limerick, founded in 1995. The company specializes in the production and distribution of butter, cheese, milk powder, and other dairy ingredients for the retail, foodservice, and food manufacturing sectors. It sources its raw materials from Irish farms, placing a strong emphasis on quality, traceability, and milk obtained from predominantly grass-fed cows. Its product portfolio includes a variety of butters, Cheddar, Gouda, Edam, and other cheeses, as well as a wide range of dairy ingredients for the food industry. In addition to developing its own products, the company collaborates with international partners and exports to numerous markets worldwide. Glenstal Foods operates in accordance with internationally recognized food safety standards and is a member of Ireland's Origin Green sustainability program, which promotes responsible food production and sustainable resource management.Expand

Glenilen Farm is a family-run farm located in Drimoleague, in West Cork, Ireland. It was founded by Alan and Valerie Kingston, who combined their love for agriculture and passion for food production to create a range of high-quality dairy products.

Today, Glenilen Farm produces a wide variety of dairy products, including yogurts, butter, cream, and cheesecakes, using fresh milk from their own farm and neighboring farms. Their philosophy is simple: use only a few essential ingredients, without artificial additives or preservatives, to ensure natural goodness in everyday food.

They take pride in their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, implementing various initiatives to protect the environment and support the local community.Expand

Connacht Gold is an esteemed Irish dairy brand with roots dating back to 1897, originating from the cooperative dairies along Ireland's western seaboard. Over the years, it has evolved into a national brand, remaining true to its local heritage. ​Expand