The Country Butcher Wins Big at Convention

has been a recognized Tolland treasure for many years. And now owner Stephen Boyer can say that his fan base extends all the way to Pennsylvania and beyond.

The Country Butcher received many honors at this spring's Pennsylvania Association of Meat Processors convention, including "Best in Show", best thuringer and awards for apple sausage, deli roast beef and maple sausage.

"We're very pleased," Boyer said of the recognition. "I was so surprised when they called my name for best in show that I didn't get up because I thought they must have made a mistake."

PAMP has more than 175 independent butchers, slaughterhouses, proccessors and suppliers as members of the organization, according to its website.

Boyer said that he is especially proud of his wins, considering how close the competition can be. 

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"It's very tough. It's amazing how the top three or four products from each class are within a point of each other," he said, explaining that a single air pocket, unmixed spice or dark spot from smoke can cause judges to deduct from the scores.

The Country Butcher has been attending the convention for a number of years, Boyer said, but has only won the "best in show" award on one other occasion.

And the competition is far from over. Stay tuned for results as The Country Butcher heads to the national American Association of Meat Processors competition in St. Paul, MN in the next few weeks.