From sourdough to sushi, there is plenty to surprise on the newly-launched Newcastle West Food Tour.

Developed by well-known local foodie and broadcaster, Sharon Noonan, the tour aims to give an overview of the best artisan producers, brewers and farmers in west Limerick; with tastings including coffee with raw milk from Croom, granola from Curraghchase and award-winning cheddar from Cahill’s, culminating in a multi-course lunch created from locally sourced ingredients.

Sharon, who presents the Best Possible Taste radio show and podcast, says the food and drink landscape in Newcastle West is “extremely impressive” when you look closely.

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“The town was home to Nash’s famous red lemonade and still is to Ballygowan, Ireland’s first developed water brand and the undisputed giant of Irish bottled water,” she explains. “The Desmond Banqueting Hall dominates the Square, which is home to Sonas Healthfoods, our answer to the Happy Pear, with its diverse and large range of Irish artisan food products. Our eclectic stalls at the Thursday and Saturday markets have so much to offer, with items such as freshly-baked sourdough bread and Irish garlic.”

Limited places are available on the next Newcastle West Food Tour, which takes place on Thursday 20 July. Tickets are €50. For details and booking, visit www.sharonnoonan.com