Winter Cordial

Like most good things, this cordial gets better with time. Allow this blend to steep for at least two weeks for the flavours to really come together. We use a combination of two Earth’s Aromatique organic teas, Rosehip Rooibos, and Bountiful Berry to lend an aromatic and flavourful note to this otherwise warm and indulgent beverage. It is fruity, aromatic, not cloyingly sweet, and unique enough to wow your dinner guests when it’s time for dessert. But let’s face it: after a long day, we might just kick back and enjoy a glass all to ourselves. Can be enjoyed on its own or added to a cup of tea by the teaspoon.

DIRECTIONS: In a 500 mL lidded jar, add Rosehip Rooibos and Bountiful Berry dried teas and cover with brandy. Cap, and shake daily for two weeks to agitate and fully infuse tea into the brandy. Line a strainer with cheesecloth to strain the infusion, then squeeze the remaining tea pulp through cheesecloth into a large measuring cup. Stir in cherry concentrate.

Meanwhile, over low heat, add honey and ½ the cordial into a double boiler. Stir until honey is completely dissolved, but take care not to overheat. Remove from heat and pour honey mixture into remaining cordial. Stir well. Using a measuring cup and a funnel, bottle cordial into two 375 mL cork bottles. Cap and label. USAGE: Stave away the winter chills or enjoy as an afterdinner aperitif/dessert. This may also be added to a cup of tea by the tsp. Not suitable for persons under 18.

YIELDS APPROXIMATELY 625 ML

⅓ cup Earth’s Aromatique Rosehip

Rooibos loose leaf tea ¼ cup Earth’s Aromatique Bountiful

Berry loose leaf tea 375 mL brandy 1 cup cherry concentrate ⅓ - ⅔ c honey (to taste)