Atlanta’s Banner Butter has finally put the South on the map for small-batch cultured butter made the old-school way. Coming in at No. 7 on our list, this pick offers a “deep, almost cheese-like flavor” and a unique texture that makes it perfect for finishing sauces and dressing seafood.
Banner Butter is made the European way with a higher butterfat percentage than U.S. standards and utilizes a special churning method that allows cream to ripen and good bacteria to populate, creating its signature tanginess. The butter-making processes at Banner take a whopping 20 times longer than commercial butter methods, but you can taste the dedication to quality.
We ranked Banner here for its dedication to the craft, growing adoration in the food world, and accessibility (it will be easier to find in-store in the eastern half of the U.S. but can be easily purchased online). Banner Butter is offered in Sea Salt, Smoked Sea Salt, and Unsalted varieties, as well as various specialty and seasonal flavors. Banner Butter typically retails around $7 per 5 ounces, or just over one stick of butter.