FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about our products, ingredients, ordering, events, and more. Don't see what you're looking for? Send us a note — we're happy to help.
About Artisan's Finest
About Artisan's Finest
What is Artisan's Finest?
Artisan's Finest is a small-batch producer of handcrafted seasonings, BBQ rubs, vanilla extracts, and specialty culinary products from Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. We focus on clean ingredients, bold flavor, and products made in small batches with attention to quality.
Where are you located?
We are based in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and regularly attend festivals, farmers markets, craft shows, and food events throughout the region.
Who owns Artisan's Finest?
Artisan's Finest is owned and operated by Chris Marston and Becky George. What began as a hobby has grown into a family-run business focused on creating premium culinary products for home cooks and food enthusiasts.
Products
Products
Are your seasonings gluten-free?
Most of our seasonings are naturally gluten-free based on their ingredients. However, they are prepared in a home-based production environment that may process ingredients from multiple suppliers. Customers with severe allergies should contact us before purchasing. See our Allergen Information for a product-by-product breakdown.
Do your seasonings contain MSG?
No. Our products are crafted without added MSG.
Do your seasonings contain fillers?
No. We do not use fillers or unnecessary additives. Our focus is on herbs, spices, and ingredients chosen for flavor.
Do your seasonings contain anti-caking agents?
No. Because we do not use anti-caking agents, some natural clumping may occur. This does not affect quality or flavor.
Are your Sugar & Salt Free Seasonings truly sugar-free and salt-free?
Yes. Our Sugar & Salt Free collection contains no added sugar and no added salt, making them an excellent option for customers seeking greater control over their dietary choices.
How much seasoning is in each pouch?
Our seasoning and BBQ rub pouches contain approximately 3.5 ounces of product, or roughly ¾ cup depending on the blend.
What is the difference between a seasoning and a BBQ rub?
Seasonings are designed for everyday cooking and may be used before, during, or after cooking. BBQ rubs are specifically formulated to create flavor and bark development on grilled, smoked, or roasted meats.
Vanilla Extracts
Vanilla Extracts
How long are your vanilla extracts aged?
Our vanilla extracts are aged for a minimum of 30 weeks before release.
What types of vanilla extracts do you offer?
Current offerings may include:
- Pure Vanilla
- Bourbon Vanilla
- Oak Aged Vanilla
- Reserve Batch Vanilla
- Golden Rum Vanilla (seasonal release)
Availability varies throughout the year.
Why are some vanilla varieties only available occasionally?
Each batch requires months of aging. Limited releases depend on aging schedules and inventory availability.
How should vanilla extract be stored?
Store tightly sealed in a cool, dark location away from direct sunlight. Properly stored vanilla extract maintains quality for years.
Heritage Sausage Seasonings
Heritage Sausage Seasonings
Do I need special equipment to use your sausage seasonings?
No. Many recipes can be prepared as patties, meatballs, or bulk sausage without any special equipment.
Can I make links with these seasonings?
Yes. Our recipe bank includes instructions for making traditional sausage links when casings and stuffing equipment are available.
What meats work best?
Depending on the blend:
- Pork
- Beef
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Venison
- Wild game
Many recipes include custom meat combinations.
Ordering
Ordering
Do you offer shipping?
Yes — we ship throughout the United States. Flat-rate shipping for seasonings, BBQ rubs, and sausage blends ranges from $5.95 to $14.95 based on the number of items, and orders over $100 ship free. Vanilla extracts ship at a rate quoted per order — just ask for details. See our Ordering Information for the full rate table.
Can I purchase products at events?
Absolutely. Many products are available at festivals, markets, and special events throughout the year. Check our Events page for upcoming appearances.
Do you offer gift bundles?
Yes. We offer a variety of curated gift bundles featuring seasonings, BBQ rubs, and vanilla extracts. Availability may vary seasonally.
Recipes
Recipes
Do you provide recipes?
Yes. Many products include recipe suggestions, and we continue to expand our online recipe collection.
Which seasoning should I start with?
Many customers begin with:
- All Purpose
- Garlic Herb
- Mediterranean
- Montreal Steak
These blends are among our most versatile products.
Wholesale
Wholesale
Do you offer wholesale pricing?
We currently offer wholesale opportunities on select seasoning and rub products. Please contact us for details.
Can my store carry Artisan's Finest products?
We are always interested in speaking with specialty food retailers, farm markets, gift shops, wineries, breweries, and similar businesses. Contact us to discuss opportunities.
Events
Events
Where can I find Artisan's Finest products in person?
Visit our Events page for our current festival and market schedule.
Do you offer samples at events?
Whenever permitted by event regulations and local health requirements, we provide samples to help customers experience our products before purchasing.
Contact
Contact
How can I contact Artisan's Finest?
Visit our Request Info page or speak with us at one of our events. We enjoy hearing how customers use our products and seeing photos of recipes made with Artisan's Finest products.
Still have a question?
We're happy to help with product details, batch availability, gift orders, or wholesale.