In modern society,
very few things endure the test of time, but like the classic Chordettes song
from 1954, a splendid bottle of port can be both timeless and magical. Among the many great ports that should be
explored in this world is Sandeman’s
Founders Reserve Porto. Established
in 1790 by George Sandeman, this port is selected from the lots of the finest
vintages and aged for five years and is truly a product that the founder would
be proud to have named after him.
Like a lot
of great ports, it has an intense ruby color, better legs than a Rockette and
an enticing aroma that hints of the pleasures that await inside. While the foreplay of this port is excellent,
the taste is even better, showcasing a balance of rich vibrancy and aged
finesse. In short, it is an excellent
port that typifies the greatness of the style and Portugal’s uniquely delicious
Touriga Nacional grape.
A glass of
this beauty, on its own or in a cocktail like the one below, is a great way to
kick off the holiday season. So please
turn on your magic beam . . . . .and Mr. Sandeman bring me a dream!
Sandeman’s Harvest Sour
We received this
recipe from Sandeman and happily tried it out.
A light and fruity cocktail with a delicate balance, this one is the
perfect complement to a holiday meal.
¾ parts
raspberry syrup*
¾ parts fresh lemon juice
1 ½ parts
Sandeman Founders Reserve Porto
½ part apple
brandy
Top with 2-3
parts dry apple cider
Pour all
ingredients in a shaker, except cider. Shake quickly and strain into a Collins
glass. Top with cider, garnish with raspberries and dust with nutmeg.
Bar Fly’s Twist: We also tried the above using Black Cherry Syrup* in place of
the raspberry syrup and a light ginger ale in place of the cider. Delicious!
*Raspberry
Syrup: In a medium saucepan combine
4 cups sugar and 1 quart water. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar has
dissolved. In another saucepan, muddle a small container of raspberries (about
6 ounces), and combine the syrup and raspberries. Let rest for a day, then
strain. Keeps for about a month.
**
Black Cherry Syrup: Combine 2
cups of 100% black cherry Juice with ¾ cup sugar. Bring to a boil and reduce to 50% of original
amount. Cool completely before use. Keeps in fridge for about a month.
Cheers and Happy Thanksgiving from Booze Whisperer and Bar Fly!