DIAGEO & TIRLÁN RECOGNISE IRISH DAIRY EXCELLENCE WITH BAILEYS COW   RETURN TO VIRGINIA

[24 th June 2026]:           Diageo Ireland in partnership with its cream supplier Tirlán, have announced the return of the Diageo Baileys Champion Dairy Cow competition to the Virginia Show on 19th August 2026. Celebrating the   excellence of Ireland's Holstein Friesian dairy herds, the event is a showcase of the quality behind Baileys' signature ingredient, Irish dairy cream. Attending its launch at the Diageo Baileys site in Dublin, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon T.D., praised the long-running competition as a living demonstration of the connection between Ireland' world-class dairy farming and one of the  country's most iconic brands.                                       

Launching the competition, Minister Heydon said, “It’s an honour to officially launch the  2026 Diageo Baileys Champion Cow competition. The return of this annual event is a reminder of the deep-rooted tradition and pride that underpins Ireland’s dairy sector. Behind every outstanding entry we see is a farm family whose knowledge has been built over generations and continues to evolve through innovation and best practice. Events like this celebrate the highest standards of animal care, bring communities together, and reinforce the vital role agriculture plays in sustaining rural Ireland. As we look to the future, it is that combination of heritage and forward thinking that will ensure the continued strength and resilience of our agri-food industry, both at home and on the  global stage.”                                           

Shane Kelly, Corporate Relations Director, Diageo Ireland, commented, “The Diageo Baileys Champion Dairy Cow competition is one of the most tangible expressions of Baileys’ Irish credentials.  The cream that goes into every bottle starts with exceptional breeding,careful herd management and a deep pride in craft - qualities that this competition celebrates. Diageo looks forward to  welcoming Ireland’s top Holstein Friesian breeders to  the Virginia Show in August and to crowning our 2026 Diageo Baileys Champion.”                                                               

 Carol Power, Senior Sales Manager at Tirlán, said, “We're proud, alongside Diageo, to put the spotlight on dairy breeding excellence through this unique event. and above all, the people behind it.The dedication of breeders and their families, many of whom have worked  towards a goal of winning ‘the Baileys’ across multiple generations, is truly remarkable. On  behalf of Tirlán I wish all the  entrants every success"