Discover the history of black butter in Jersey in Jersey Post’s new stamp issue

The History of Black Butter celebrates one of Jersey’s most beloved and traditional preserves. The fantastic British artist Chris Wormell, who you may recognise from previous Jersey Stamps issues including, History of Knitting in Jersey, and The Jersey Dairy Industry retuned to illustrate the issue.   

This issue includes a set of six stamps and a miniature sheet illustrated with Chris Wormell’s distinct art style, making each stand out. Jersey’s black butter industry dates back to the boom of the cider industry, that once exported up to 150,000 gallons a year. This abundance of apples lead to the creation of black butter, which is now a much-loved delicacy for both locals and tourists.

Black butter consists of a mixture of apples, cider, spices, lemon, and sugar. Traditionally, ingredients were stirred within a bachin (copper cauldron) for 24hours over a hot fire. Its creation was a huge community event, especially within the rural parishes. The labour-intensive work of harvesting, peeling, and stirring was traditionally shared among islanders, turning the process into a social and celebratory event.

Discover more about the history of one of Jersey’s most loved products, In The History of Black Butter stamp issue, available from Thursday 9^th October to purchase online at www.jerseystamps.com or from Broad Street and Rue Des Pres Post Offices in Jersey, Channel Islands UK.