About Jersey Royal Potatoes
The Jersey Royal potato, a cherished delicacy with a rich history dating back to 1878, has become an integral part of Jersey's agricultural heritage. This unique variety was discovered by Hugh de la Haye, a local farmer who planted an unusually large potato with 15 "eyes" on a steep, south-facing field known as a "côtil". The resulting crop yielded early, kidney-shaped potatoes that would become the foundation of Jersey's most famous export.
What makes Jersey Royals special?
Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)
Awarded in 1997, this status ensures that only these famous Kidney shaped seasonal delights, grown on the isle of Jersey, can be called Jersey Royals
Distinctive flavour
A delicious nutty taste and smooth, waxy texture make them ideal for salads and various culinary applications, the Champagne of potatoes
Always seasonal
Exclusively grown on Jersey, these potatoes are a seasonal treat from April–July each year
1880
De la Haye plants the potato on a steep slope (côtil) in Jersey, leading to the creation of the "Jersey Fluke"
1878
Hugh de la Haye, a Jersey farmer, discovers an unusual potato with 15 eyes
LATE 1880
The potato is introduced to British markets as a spring variety
Early 1900
Jersey Royals gain popularity and begin exporting to the UK and beyond
Early 1900
Queen Victoria tastes and approves of Jersey Royal potatoes, boosting their reputation
1997
Jersey Royal potatoes receive EU Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, ensuring their unique identity
1997
The Jersey Royal Company was founded
2001
The Genuine Jersey organisation was founded, creating a distinctive logo to identify local Jersey products, including Jersey Royals
2007
Albert Bartlett establishes dedicated packing and growing infrastructure on Jersey
2009
Albert Bartlett commission a bronze statue to pay tribute to the generations of islanders who have hand-planted and hand-picked Jersey Royal potatoes.
2014
Albert Bartlett began working with seven dedicated island farmers to cultivate Jersey Royal potatoes across 5,000 vergées
2022
Albert Bartlett continues to invest in sustainable farming practices for Jersey Royals, including water conservation techniques.
2024
Albert Bartlett completes the acquisition of The Jersey Royal Company from Produce Investments. The two brands come together to form Jersey Royal Company.
All archive imagery provided by Jersey Evening Post
