"heirloom cranberries" news and stories

How about some heirloom cranberries to go with your heritage turkey this year? Small farmers are growing varieties of cranberries that haven't been seen commercially in decades, including native berries that are the same as the originals harvested by American Indians and early settlers. Many of these varieties are dry picked using old fashioned equipment because the berries are more delicate than the commercial ones which are scooped up from flooded bogs. I never knew that there were so many cranberry varieties: Cropper, Champion, Centennial, Jersey, Early Richards, Beckwith, Wilcox, and Bluebells. Some are smaller than the commercial types, and others can be tear drop shaped. They may have sweeter, more floral, or tangier tastes. Cranberries with a depth of flavor to them with more of the essence of that ideal cranberry taste. If you are lucky there may be some of these tasty cranberries available at local markets and farmers markets in your area. Take a look at the article for a small list of places in the South Jersey / PA area. For the rest of us it may take a bit of hunting to find them. If you do please share the info with us. I would love to make some cranberry liqueur with a batch of heirloom fruit.

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