Producers we like: Rosebud Preserves

Elspeth Biltoft is the owner of Rosebud Preserves, producer of jams, chutneys, pickles and more, made with quality ingredients since 1989.

The quirkiest element to our business has to be our rural location in the Yorkshire Dales. All of our production is done in the hamlet of Healey in two converted 19th-century barns. Wild ingredients such as bramble, rosehip, sloe and crab apples surround us. Growing up, we used to make wine from dandelion flowers, and piccalilli from veg grown in our allotment. We collaborate with several local food businesses – including The Wensleydale Creamery, Ampleforth Abbey and The Black Sheep Brewery. Black Sheep’s Riggwelter Ale, a strong dark brew with dark fruit and roasted malt aromas, gives a richness and depth to our Great Yorkshire Pickle, a traditional pickle made with garden vegetables, molasses and ground spices. My favourite place to travel for foodie inspiration is California. The first time I visited Chez Panisse I tried a salad with blood orange at a time when it was unheard of in the UK – it was so vibrant in colour and flavour. I make my mincemeat a bit later in November so that it doesn’t lose its freshness. I don’t use suet, I use Californian almonds along with sultanas, raisins, currants, orange juice, lemon zest, unrefined sugar, chopped English Bramley apple and a glug of brandy. I often eat it straight from the jar! rosebudpreserves.co.uk