Christchurch-based J. Friend and Co won runner-up for its New Zealand Artisan Wild Thyme Honey. The company produces single-variety, single-source honeys from all over New Zealand – and this one comes from the rugged, thyme-covered hills of Central Otago. Director Jeremy Friend and partner Sharon Woodnorth set out on a mission when they realised most of New Zealand’s best single-variety honeys were sent overseas, leaving little other than mixed-origin honeys for the locals. Determined to remedy the situation, they originally sold their range just at their local farmers’ market, but now it’s available all over New Zealand and exported to Australia. The company philosophy is that, like wine, honey should “speak” of the region that produced it. “That is why single-origin honey is also vital to us. No blending of honey from different varietals, regions or even seasons takes place. Pure and simple is best,” says director Jeremy Friend. Judges in the 2010 Cuisine Artisan Awards agree. They commended the honey for being beautifully blended and for keeping what can be the overwhelming taste of thyme in check.
< Back to the Profile
