A lot of love goes into every jar of Clif Family jam. Meet the maker behind our sweet and savory preserves.
As winter settles in, there’s no better time to embrace the sweet and savory flavors of handmade preserves. At Clif Family Winery & Farm, January is all about jam—Jammin’ January, to be exact. This month, we’re putting the spotlight on the art of preserve-making and the talented hands behind our small-batch creations: Dulce Noonan, Clif Family’s Preserve Maker.
Dulce’s passion for cooking and creativity shines through in every jar of jam she makes. We caught up with her to uncover the secrets, stories, and inspirations behind Clif Family’s preserves. From unique flavor combinations to pairing tips, this Q&A will take you inside the world of artisanal jam-making.
Meet Dulce Noonan: Clif Family’s Preserve Maker
What got you into jam-making, and how did you start making jam at Clif Family? I was working as the General Manager of another jam company in Sonoma when the opportunity to join the Clif Family team came up. Kit Crawford had always wanted to make Clif Family jams in our own preserve kitchen using the fruit we grow on the Clif Family Farm. I didn’t hesitate to join the team and head up this exciting new project. It brings together everything that I love most – cooking and creating as a chef, working with the farm team, and managing the production. What’s your favorite part of making jam at Clif Family? Alchemy. As a chef, I love transforming one ingredient into another. The creation process is thrilling. Having the opportunity to work with fresh, organic fruit from the Clif Family Farm at its peak ripeness and turning it into a vibrant, delicious jam is incredibly rewarding. Working with Farm Manager Tessa Henry is amazing—we visit the farm together regularly and closely monitor the fruits to harvest them at the perfect moment for cooking. What’s the most challenging aspect of making jam? Not eating all of it! On a serious note, maintaining our high standards for quality, flavor, and presentation is a constant focus. While it’s not a challenge in a negative sense, it’s an area where we’re always striving for excellence. What’s your favorite fruit or vegetable to use in making jam and why? Strawberries and blueberries. Their sweetness and vibrant colors are stunning, and their delicate nature adds an extra layer of artistry to the process. Could you share any unique flavor combinations you’ve been experimenting with? Jalapeño Mint Jelly and Blueberry Zinfandel Jam. These flavors will blow your mind! What are some pro tips for storing jam to ensure freshness? Avoid cross-contamination, don’t double-dip, and always store your jam in the fridge after it's been opened. Do you have any favorite pairings for your jams? I love pairing our Peach Habanero and Red Pepper Jams with gouda cheese and a glass of Zinfandel. They are matches made in heaven!
Celebrate Jammin’ January with Clif Family
This January, join us in celebrating the delicious creations crafted by Dulce and the Clif Family team. Dulce will be joining the hospitality team in our St. Helena Tasting Room every Friday in January for a series of Jam Tastings. Stop by from 12–3 PM on January 10th, 17th, 24th, and 31st to meet Dulce and try new flavors. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the master herself and discover your next favorite preserve! RESERVE A TASTING
