Anyone who has visited Provence, as we have often, could fill two paragraphs with its delights: scenery, history, cities, cuisine and fine wines. Yet we never suspected a further hidden secret: its own delightful aperitif to rival the recently-fashionable Aperol as well as longer-established brands such as Campari or the Martinis.
For, in company recently with two Ladies in the fashionable resort of Worthing in the UK (well, Dominic the Builder thinks it resembles Nice) we were at first surprised when they demanded this Melonade as the basis of their pre-lunch cocktails. “What is it?” we enquired. And we were delighted to learn that:
Melonade is a craft aperitif born under the sun of Provence. It’s made from Cavaillon melons, grown in the unique soil of Provence in the South of France, and harvested at maturity for an intensity of taste and optimal flavours.
Richly aromatic, this fruity aperitif is the ideal base for a laid-back, Southern French-inspired spritz. Alternatively, drink it neat over crushed ice or mix with sparkling water, lemonade, tonic or in cocktails. source/www.melonadeaperitif.com
As you will have guessed, these are the words of the Melonade home site. And we advise you to click on it forthwith, for it goes on to list some delightful recipes which anyone would be proud to mix for guests. Especially with Christmas parties coming up. Of course we can’t list them all. But one of our interlocutors swears by this easy to make Melospritz, which comprises:
60ml sparkling wine (most of you will choose Bolly, no doubt; but Prosecco will do at a pinch)
40ml Melonade
20ml soda water
All poured over ice and garnished with a slice of orange
Now what could better partner the life style of a Cote d’Azur flaneur, relaxing in a pavement cafe in Old Nice and observing the passing tides of humanity? We can’t wait to jump on a plane at Gatwick and try it out. When Spring comes, of course.
#melonade #spritz #Provence #cocktails
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