Welcome to the very first episode of The Love NI Food Podcast — where we are passionate about great food, great people and great stories. In this new series, host Shauna Magill-Fegan sits down with inspiring local producers, suppliers, and voices from across the Northern Ireland food and drink industry to hear the stories behind the people and products that make the region’s food scene so special.
In Episode 1, Shauna talks to Peter and Catherine McKeever from Long Meadow Cider, a family-run cider company based in the heart of County Armagh. Known as the “Orchard County,” Armagh has a deep-rooted connection to apples, and the McKeevers share their fascinating history of the iconic Armagh Bramley apple, which holds PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status. They explore how the region’s unique landscape, climate, and generations of farming knowledge have helped shape the reputation of Armagh apples around the world.
Peter and Catherine also tell the story of Long Meadow Cider itself — how the business began on their family farm and continues to be run and operated by family members today, with the next generation actively involved. From orchard to bottle, they explain how tradition, passion, and local heritage combine to create their range of award-winning cider and apple products.
The conversation also looks at how the McKeever family has opened their working farm, orchards, and cider house to the public, welcoming visitors for tours, tastings, and seasonal events that celebrate the heritage of Armagh apples and the wider local food culture.
The Love NI Food Podcast is proudly sponsored by Andrew Ingredients, one of the UK and Ireland’s leading bakery ingredient suppliers. With decades of experience supporting bakers, chefs, and food producers, Andrew Ingredients continues to champion quality ingredients and innovation across the food industry.
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