Blackwater Honey is a family-run beekeeping business based in Fermoy, County Cork, Ireland. Founded in 2020 by brothers Andrew and John Shinnick, they are third-generation beekeepers with over 60 years of combined experience. Their mission is to produce premium, 100% natural Irish honey using sustainable practices while conserving the native Irish honeybee, Apis mellifera mellifera. They operate several apiaries, each yielding honey with unique taste, color, and aroma, reflecting the diverse flora of the region. Their commitment to biodiversity includes using recyclable packaging and distributing free wildflower seeds to support pollinator habitats.
Blackwater Honey’s dedication to quality has earned them numerous awards, including Gold medals in the Blas na hÉireann Irish Taste Awards and the Irish Quality Food & Drink Awards for their Heather and Blossom Honeys. They also offer hive and queen adoption programs, allowing individuals and businesses to support native bee conservation efforts. As active members of the Federation of Irish Beekeepers Association and the Native Irish Honey Bee Society, they play a significant role in promoting sustainable beekeeping and environmental stewardship in Ireland.
We produce various types of honey, including Heather Honey, Blossom Honey, Soft Set Honey, and Ivy Soft Set Honey, each with distinct flavors and textures.
Yes, our honey is 100% raw and natural, retaining all the beneficial nutrients and enzymes without any additives or pasteurization.
You can support our conservation efforts by adopting a hive or queen through our website, contributing to the preservation of native Irish honeybee colonies.
Currently, we only ship within Ireland. We are exploring options to expand our shipping services in the future.
Store our honey at room temperature in a dry place. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause crystallization.
Dave Gahan
May 28, 2025 at 1:18 pmJust tried Blackwater Honey’s Heather Honey, and it’s incredible—rich, floral, and smooth. Love that it’s 100% raw and made by native Irish bees. Their commitment to sustainability and bee conservation makes supporting them even sweeter.
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