In the world of local artisanal goods, some of the most compelling brands are born from a combination of history and high-quality craftsmanship. Hamptons Preserves is a primary example, founded by Westhampton Beach residents Briana Rogers Surgan and Halsey Surgan. The business is built on a 90-year-old family heirloom: “Sweetmeats,” a handwritten compendium of jam recipes written by Briana’s great-great aunt, Eunice Rogers. This connection to the past has allowed the Surgans to revive seasonal flavors that have been part of the East End’s culinary fabric for nearly a century.
What began as a personal project during the pandemic evolved into a professional operation that the couple fine-tuned while living in Texas before returning to the North Fork. Today, Hamptons Preserves produces approximately 1,000 jars annually, offering up to 30 different varieties based on the ripeness of the season. Their inventory features unadulterated fruit flavors, with staples like strawberry appearing alongside low-yield local specialties like beach plum.
A key component of the company’s business model is its commitment to the local agricultural economy. The Surgans prioritize local sourcing, working with established names like Olish Farms in Eastport and Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Some of their most popular ingredients, including rhubarb and blueberries, are sourced directly from their family’s gardens in Westhampton Beach. This hyper-local approach ensures that the product reflects the true seasonal character of the East End.
From a retail perspective, Hamptons Preserves has successfully secured placement in several prominent North and South Fork outlets, including the Eastport General Store, Fruit King, and Sayville Cheese. As demand has grown, the couple is currently looking to transition from their residential production setup to a commercial kitchen. This move will allow them to scale their operations and hire staff to meet the increasing interest from both local customers and international fans who request their products as far away as Germany.
For the Surgans, the business is about more than just a retail product. It is a preservation of local history and a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional methods in a modern market. By combining documented family heritage with professional production standards, Hamptons Preserves has created a brand that resonates with collectors of authentic East End flavors.
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