Q&A with Sharon Noonan, Host of Best Possible Taste, Ireland’s longest running food & Drink podcast and freelance marketing consultant

Tell us about your current role?

I am a freelance marketing professional and chartered marketer dedicated to providing a range of marketing-related services to a portfolio of clients in the food, drink and hospitality sector.  I also host the Best Possible Taste, Ireland’s longest-running food and drink podcast, which focuses on food and drink topics. 

I have produced 2 BAI funded radio documentaries – “Devlins’ Yellowman – A Taste of Childhood” and “What a BLASt – Celebrating 10 Years of the Irish Food Awards”  and I regularly MC and chair panel discussions at events and have been a guest judge at many hospitality and food awards including the Blas na hÉireann / Irish Food Awards. 

How did you first get into the food/drink industry? 

I think it is fair to say that I took the scenic route to my current career.  My maiden name is Devlin and my family have had greengrocer businesses for several generations.  My parents were determined that my 2 siblings and I would not follow in their footsteps and after studying Business and French at Queen’s University Belfast, I completed an overseas export marketing programme. 

I worked in sales and marketing roles in various industries including agriculture, aerospace and academia before meeting Mr Noonan and relocating from Belfast to his native West Limerick.  Having taken redundancy after my daughter was born and before my son arrived, my husband encouraged me to start my marketing consultancy business in 2013 with a focus on the food, drink and hospitality sectors.

What is your favourite part about working in the industry?

Without a doubt, the people. The food and drink industry is filled with passionate, creative, and resilient individuals who inspire me every day. It’s a privilege to be part of such a dynamic and collaborative community.

We’re meeting up for a drink after work – what are you having?

I’d probably go for a refreshing mojito, a gin and orange juice, or a crisp glass of prosecco, depending on the time of year, mood and venue!

You can only have one drink for the rest of your life, what’s in your glass? 

Prosecco! Its light, bubbly character never fails to put a smile on my face.

It’s Saturday night, what restaurant are you going to?

The multi-award-winning Mustard Seed in Ballingarry, Co Limerick which is celebrating 40 years in business in 2025! It’s one of my absolute favourites, offering a perfect blend of incredible food, exceptional service, and local charm. The attention to detail and the warm, attentive staff, with owner John Edward Joyce at the helm, truly make every visit a memorable experience.

Is there a bucket list food/drink you want to try, or a dream food/drink destination you’d love to visit?

Madeira has been at the top of my list for a long time. Its unique culinary and wine traditions are so enticing, and I’d love to experience them firsthand.

What is the most memorable experience of your career so far?

One of the most memorable milestones in my career to date was being invited to join the Irish Food Writers’ Guild in 2024. The Guild is a prestigious organisation that celebrates and promotes excellence in Irish food writing, with membership granted by invitation only to those who have demonstrated a significant contribution to the industry.

To be recognised and welcomed into such an esteemed group of professionals was an incredible honour and a testament to my passion for storytelling in the food and drink sector on the Best Possible Taste podcast.   It is humbling to be part of a network of passionate individuals who are dedicated to honouring and showcasing Ireland’s rich food culture.

 What is one thing you’d like to see more of in the drinks industry? 

I’d love to see more innovation in sustainable practices, from eco-friendly packaging to creative ways of reducing waste in production. It’s an exciting area where we can make a real difference.

Are there any particular women you admire in the industry? 

Fallon Moore, of the Irish Food & Drinks Awards, is someone I deeply admire. Her leadership and dedication to recognizing excellence in the food and drink industry are truly inspiring.

What is one thing you’d like to see more of in the drinks industry? 

I’d love to see more innovation in sustainable practices, from eco-friendly packaging to creative ways of reducing waste in production. It’s an exciting area where we can make a real difference.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a career in the industry? 

Be curious and willing to learn from every experience. Build genuine relationships, and don’t be afraid to take risks or start small. Passion and perseverance will take you far in this industry

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You can connect Sharon on LinkedIn here, Instagram here, and on X here.