HOGAN'S FARM
The free-range bronze turkeys, by Hogan’s Farm for the Simply Better range, are heritage birds in the truest sense
Neven Maguire visits Paul Hogan of Hogans Farms in Co.Meath.
WILD TURKEYS
Hogan’s Farm, a three-generation family farm in Cortown, Kells, Co Meath, have been rearing fresh Irish turkeys since 1962 and exclusively supplies the multi-award-winning Free-Range Heritage Bronze turkeys for our Simply Better range. Operated by Paul, Sandra, Fintan, and Hilda Hogan, the farm raises these unique birds on the historic Charlesfort House estate, in an environment featuring an 1807 walled garden and deep, ancient woodlands.
Descended from American wild black turkeys, the Heritage Bronze birds are celebrated for their natural hardiness, distinctive dark plumage, and exceptional flavour profile. Hogan’s Farm implements strict rearing specifications that prioritise animal welfare and traditional farming techniques.
The turkeys are kept in an outdoor enclosure. “This area is five times larger than a regulation free-range space needs to be,” says Paul. They are slow-reared for up to seven months to mature naturally and fed a cereal-based diet, supplemented by foraging for forest foliage, kale, apples, and carrots across the woodland floor.
High-standard biosecurity measures, including specialised electrified fencing, protect the flock from predators and the threat of avian flu. This traditional, slow-growing approach ensures a premium, moisture-rich product, resulting in a Dunnes Stores Simply Better range that features hand-prepared options such as whole birds and master-butcher turkey crowns, making it a Christmas staple across Ireland.
