Sep 9

Sep 9 The Maker Series: Jammin out in Upstate

There are countless products that stem from the amazing bounty of Upstate NY. The Hudson Valley grows some of the best harvest in the state.

But how can we enjoy the flavors of summer long after harvest season is through?

Enter: Jams, Preserves and Marmalades- the delicious spreads that are known for the classic PBJ, an accompaniment with toast or just a spoonful to top your chia pudding.

A recent arrival to the market (now a pantry staple) began during quarantine and has exploded in popularity- one taste and you’ll know why!

Three Dancing Bears is founded and made by Alyssa Mastromonaco- a Dutchess County native. You may know her as a NYT Best Selling Author, Podcast Host, Former White House Deputy Chief of Staff or simply Jam Maker and Rescue Cat Mom, Alyssa. Her small batch preserves and jam boast names as unique as the flavor combinations. Some personal favorites for the flavor & the name include, RBG Memorial Stone Fruits and Fancy Calabrian Chili Marmalade. Locavores will appreciate that all of the fruit is picked from local farms throughout Columbia and Dutchess Counties. Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, these small batch staples aren’t filled with heaping amounts of sugar. Alyssa has mastered her craft using less sugar than other jams and never using store bought pectin but using fresh lemons instead.

By now I’m sure you’re salivating and craving toast and jam but something curious is pulling at you- the name. What’s in a name? One look at the label will bring songs by the Grateful Dead playing on a loop in your head. Swapping the tie dye for flavor has proven successful and delicious. Each purchase gives back- 10% of Three Dancing Bears proceeds are donated directly to the Great Bear Foundation.