He has been making jams for upwards of two decades, with devotees flocking to his booth at Christmas craft sales to buy up their favourites. Robert Henderson makes his Henderson Farms jams and jellies on Wolfe Island, just outside of Kingston, but has developed a following that stretches from Ottawa to Toronto and beyond.

This year, he took home the Grey Cup of jam-making, walking away with a Grand Champion Jam and Jelly maker and judges choice  for  his new Pear & Raspberry jam at the Royal Agriculture Winter Fair in Toronto. Heady awards, which should translate into foodie recognition and strong sales in the all-important pre-Christmas shopping season.

But what of this new and much-heralded Pear & Raspberry jam? We’ve been enjoying Henderson Farms jam for years and are loyal buyers of his ginger jam (lip-smacking) and pear jam (so fresh).

And so a taste test of the much-heralded Pear & Raspberry. Our non-professional tasting notes: Mild, with beautiful colour and texture and a bright, fresh taste. We were surprised to find that the milder pear retains its presence when paired with the more dominant raspberry.

Verdict: It was love at first bite, but after careful consideration our true allegiance remains with our long-term love — the pure pear jam.

Time to do your own tasting, and you be the judge.

Henderson Farms sells jams, jellies, marmalades, and chutneys. Visit them at Booth 721 at the Originals Christmas Craft Sale, Dec. 6 – 16 at the CE Centre.