The Bite Magazine - Summer 2019 - Issue 25

bite drinks Jada Brookes embarks on a premium spirit that not only delivers a vibrant, natural rose flavour that stands out from the crowd, but has a very interesting history. W hile kings and queens in England enjoyed fine wines at their festive meals, the elite societies of the king- dom of Prussia, the Austrian empire and the king- dom of the two Sicilies, cherished alcoholic beverages such as Lanique Rose Petal Liqueur. A drink first discovered and en- joyed over 200 years ago, Lanique was imbibed by the wealthy and titled elite at their celebrations and grand balls. Besides hav- ing a unique flavour and colour, it is completely natural with ingredients sourced from exotic locations and is included in the coveted Attar of Rose from the East that gave it its unique rose and taste. The pure distillation of 18th century splendour was recreated in the modern world in the late 1990s, in which thousands of hand-picked rose petals are used, giving Lanique its natural rose taste and aroma. The drink was originally created by a princess who owned a distillery close to her castle in what is now known as modern-day Poland. It was first enjoyed in the kingdom of Prussia and Austria where it was much favoured and enjoyed by the elite of the day, sipping it neat in small tasting cups. While the original name was lost in the mists of time, it became syn- onymous with luxury and sophistication. Even in the roaring 1920s, this beverage was a firm favourite in cocktails but sadly disappeared with the Second World War when trade routes were blocked and the availability of fresh rose petals dried up. Thankfully when Eastern Europe re-opened, curators were able to unravel the fascinating history of this once loved drink. After years of work by dedicated artisans, the long lost recipe was reborn and Lanique was relaunched in the UK. It is now distilled in the British Isles and continues to use the original recipe that has remained the same for over 200 years. Interestedly, as well as the design of the Lanique bottle being in- spired by the ingredients and history of the name, it has a valued meaning. It is said that the splashes of gold reflect the Attar of Rose liquid, which gram for gram is more expensive than gold, while the rich blue tones reflect the opulence and sophistication of Prussia, and the rich decorations that would have dressed the grand ballrooms where Lanique was first enjoyed. They may not have mixed the drink into cocktails like we do now, but there are many creative ways to enjoy Lanique, other than having it straight or on the rocks. Topping up 25ml of Lanique with prosecco, cava or champagne will give you the refreshing taste of fizz paired with the exotic flavour of the liqueur in Lanique Rose Royal , deemed a special drink that is perfect for any occasion. For an alternative to the classic and ever popular G&T, try Lanique Rose & Tonic , topped with tonic water and served over cubed ice, and garnished with a lime wedge and dried rose petals. It’s a simple and refreshing drink that can be enjoyed on any occasion and is perfect for brunch banquets, high tea or sumptuous suppers. Refreshingly clear and simple, the Lanique Rose & Gentle cock- tail is easy to make. Just top up 25ml or 50ml of Lanique with ginger ale and serve over cubed ice with garnishes of a lime wheel. In this drink, the sharpness of ginger will enhance the natural flavour of Lanique, delivering a refreshing taste. The makings of a sophisticated and exquisite drink, Lanique Rose Cosmopolitan is created with 50ml of Lanique, 15ml of Coin- treau, fresh lime and cranberry juice and garnished with a lime twist. Not too sweet or too tart, this polished and elegant drink is pleasantly sharp with a beautiful deep pink glow. If you usually enjoy a good old Negroni, try the Lanique Rose Negroni cocktail with 12.5ml of Lanique, 12.5ml of dry ver- mouth, 25ml of Campari and 25ml of gin. Serve this over cubed ice and garnish with an orange wedge to indulge in a high spir- ited punch with a delicate rosy finish. Or the Prussian high so- ciety twist on a French 75, where the Lanique Prussian 75 adds a splash of sophistication and indulgence to any soirée with in- gredients of 25ml of Lanique, 15ml of fresh lemon juice, topped with champagne and garnished with a lemon twist. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, Lanique can be enjoyed at home or at leading bars, restaurants and retailers in the United Kingdom, Australia, and South Africa. www.lanique.co.uk