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L.C. Confectionery, owner of many Irish vintage confectionery brands, including Urney Chocolates, has introduced Hadji Bey Turkish Delight back to the market. Hadji Bey the company, was established in 1902 in Cork by Armenian national, Harutun Batmazian. Harutun's first career choice, like Urney Chocolates founder, Harry Gallagher, was law. While studying in Istanbul (then Constantinople) Harutun found time to help out in a confectionery business producing Turkish Delight. However, when the Turks began executing Armenian Christians he fled to south west Ireland. Despite having no English or financial backing Haruntun set up shop in MacCurtain Street, Cork and before long had converted the Irish to the exotic charms of Turkish Delight.
Today in County Kildare, Hadji Bey sweetmeats are still lovingly handmade to original recipes. Available in Original Rose and Rahat Lokoum (a mix of Rose, Orange and Lemon) flavours, the sweets are hand packed in beautifully designed sturdy, round boxes. The boxes retail at a very reasonable €8.95 from outlets nationwide, such as the English Market, Cork and The Chocolate Shop. They can also be found in exclusive London foodstore, Fortnum and Mason.
Although Urney Chocolates ceased trading 40 years ago the brand is still alive and well. Leo Cummins has worked in the confectionery business for many years as did his father. Having gathered a wealth of experience in the area, Leo combines his knowledge with a passion for vintage sweets and the legacy behind the original brands. Along with Cleeves Toffees and Hadji Bey Turkish Delight he plans to reintroduce Urney Chocolates to the market. And we can't wait!
Last week the Jedward Easter egg was launched as an Urney Chocolates creation.
"And so we are the proud manufacturers and developers of Jedward Twin Milk Chocolate Easter Eggs with a special Jedward No 1 Fan milk chocolate medal in each pack and an even more special 5 Gold Tickets to meet Jedward in 5 very special packs."
They can be bought online or from Heatons, Eurospar, Mace, Spar and Woodies of Bray, Lucan and Tallaght. Quantities are limited so you'll have to be quick before stocks run out. Now Leo, when oh when can we expect a Two and Two bar?
