If you haven’t already heard of Helen and her award winning preserves, where have you been?
Not just the operator of Tegfan Garden Suite, a Brecon Beacons Ambassador but also an award winning preserves, jam and marmalade maker, we present the taste maestro behind Black Mountains Preserves, Helen Dunne.
Helen and her family live just outside of Talgarth, in the foothills of the Black Mountains. Collecting the majority of the produce used in the preserves themselves, what they can’t collect themselves, they source as locally as possible. They have a Market Garden called Alfie Dan’s being established in one of their fields. This is owned and run by local Maria Pope & her family.
Most of us wouldn’t go to that extreme to get access to fresh produce but Helen always is looking for ways to enhance, not just her product, but also her local area, building strong supply chains and creating local networks with small suppliers and growers.
Made in small batches, no more than 12 jars in a batch, using a traditional open pan method Helen creates award winning products.
Helen says
“Black Mountains Preserves range have a high fruit and less sugar content using the natural pectin from the fruit to help them set and giving you the true taste of the fruit. Tasty, tangy and not too sweet classic flavours include Blackcurrant Extra Jam or even a zesty Damson & Orange Preserve with freshly squeezed orange juice from the luxury collection”
Her Black Mountains Preserves Moroccan Marmalade has been recently awarded a GOLD for the Marmalade category from the Great British Food Awards 2023.
The judges comments included
“This all-natural marmalade is a true gem! Handmade in Wales, it embodies the essence of craftsmanship and quality, offering a unique and intriguing bite. With its natural ingredients and artisanal touch, this marmalade is a must-try.”
The celebrity judge was food writer & critic William Sitwell who loved “our original recipe and good use of herbs and spices”.
Pick up the latest copy of Great British Food Magazine for top tips for Christmas preparations and more winning info. You’ll find Black Mountains Preserves featured in Kitchen Staples on page 143
If you would like to speak to Helen, offer surplus harvest, buy or enquire about her products; please do contact her via email BMPreserves@gmail.com
Find her at local Brecon Farmers Market, amongst others & through November at Hay Market on Thursdays.
Gift sets, retail, mini jars and catering sizes are available and are all made using sustainable and recyclable packaging.
Helen is an avid cook who regularly shares her recipes, although her preserves recipes are a closely guarded secret.
