Mario’s Luxury Dairy Ice Cream, based in Cross Hands, scooped the Golden Fork from Wales for its Blackcurrant and Cassis Sorbet. The award was announced at the Great Taste Golden Forks ceremony after months of judging by more than 500 chefs, buyers and food writers.
The sorbet, praised by judges for its strong fruit profile and smooth texture, was chosen from over 14,000 products entered into this year’s awards. It had already achieved the maximum three‑star rating before being named Wales’ best food or drink product.
Multiple award wins
Mario’s also collected further accolades in 2025, with its Clotted Cream Ice Cream earning three stars, and two‑star ratings for its Clotted Cream Raspberry Ripple and Olive Oil, Honey and Rock Salt flavours.
Founded more than 40 years ago by Italian‑born ice cream maker Mario Dallavalle, the company uses milk from a Carmarthenshire dairy and Welsh cream across a range of more than 40 products. Its ice creams and sorbets are supplied to hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and independent retailers across Wales and the UK.
Praise from Welsh Government
Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca‑Davies, who is also Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, congratulated the company, calling it “a shining example of the excellence and creativity that define Welsh food and drink.”
Record year for Welsh produce
The Guild of Fine Food, which runs the awards, said Mario’s was one of a record 146 Welsh products to receive Great Taste recognition in 2025. This included eight products awarded three stars, 40 with two stars and 98 with one star, ranging from artisan cheeses and craft ciders to meats and baked goods.
Established in 1994, the Great Taste Awards are regarded as one of the UK’s most rigorous food and drink competitions, with entries judged through blind tastings. Only around 2% of products achieve the top three‑star ranking each year.
