Kilkenny set up Sunday's rematch with Limerick following an enthralling clash against Clare in the semi-finals earlier this month.
Despite a frantic end to the game, Kilkenny held on to win after a sensational injury-time diving save from goalkeeper Eoin Murphy.
Kilkenny's semi-final triumph ensured a record 65th All-Ireland Hurling final for the Leinster kingpins.
"Clare are a serious side and they were a big test for us," added Fogarty, a four-time All-Ireland winner.
"Semi-finals are about winning and it doesn't matter how you do it. Eoin [Murphy] is a serious goalie. I've seen him make saves like that in training at point blank range. He's just capable of doing that, he's an outstanding goalkeeper.
"I wasn't surprised that he stopped it. If anyone could do it, it's going to be Eoin. It was huge for the team and it got us over the line."
The Leinster champions have impressed this season under new manager Derek Lyng, who led the side to their 75th provincial title in June.
Lyng was appointed last summer following the departure of Brian Cody, hurling's most decorated manager.
Cody led his Kilkenny team to 11 All-Ireland titles, 18 Leinster wins and 10 National League triumphs during his 24 years at the helm.
Lyng will be looking to join Cody as an All-Ireland winning manager with Kilkenny and in doing so has a chance to improve on his predecessor's maiden season in charge.
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