It was Noel, our jolly farmers market man who introduced us to Brian at Northumbrian Preserves. Another regular at farmers markets across the region, Noel got to know Brian and his wonderful chutneys and jams, and thought it might be something we would be interested in. We are always trying to source products for our shop, particularly North-Eastern ones. and so we were very excited when he brought a range in for us to try. We now regularly have them in store, and they are selling wonderfully. With good reason:they are delicious. Beetroot and Ginger chutney was an instant favourite amongst the office staff, and it tastes magnificent with goats' cheese. The chilli jam is brilliant in sandwiches. Plum chutney is always a welcomed addition to a cheese board. The carrot chutney is delicious paired with mild cheese. One of the fantastic things about Brian is his love of seasonaility:he has his regular favourites, but he will make up a batch of chutney accodring to what he has in his garden, and past stars have included Rhubarb Chutney and Gooseberry jam.
It is always worth coming to our shop to see what he has dreamt up recently. He is producing some exclusive Christmas chutney for us, which we can't wait to use. Brian grows all of his own fruit and vegetables in his garden:that's the beauty of what he does. The word 'local' is bandied around quite easily these days, but Northumbrian Preserves are the real thing. And delicious they are too.
A selection are available on the website, but come in store to try the full range.
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