We’re in the final stages of product development and we plan to start turning out preserves May 1!

We’ve been working on Figs and Black Tea – we are drinking tea until it comes out of our ears, trying to find exactly the right blend to go with the figs. It has to be earthy and full and robust but not overpowering. Dark fruit notes. Matt found one that he thinks is the winner yesterday, a blend from Upton Tea Imports, and when I had him come up with some words for it he said “hugs” and “bodacious”. Along with “perfect”.

Our other project is Shallot Confit with Red Wine; similarly, we have to find just the right wine. It can’t be too fruity. Matt’s thinking a Malbec. We’re debating about the sweetness factor. I don’t have a sweet tooth at all, a disadvantage for a preserves taster.

And of course there’s the Orange Marmalade with Lemons, which we think is exactly right.

-clare