As everyone knows, this is going to be the summer of the aperitif. Light and refreshing, they are the perfect way to whet your appetite and prepare your palate for the delicious tastes it is about to enjoy.
But if you thought you knew all the players on the Aperitif scene, then the guys from Koval Gin are about to take your taste buds to the next level, with the release of their Cranberry Gin Liqueur.
With its dazzling all-natural ruby colour and refreshing tart sweetness, this Cranberry Aperitif makes for an approachable yet distinctive way to play with new flavours and enhance classic recipes.
Either served to guests at an elegant dinner party or enjoyed any night of the week at home, this no sugar Cranberry twist is perfect for a variety of cocktails or even just adding to Prosecco or sparkling wine.
By harnessing the awesome flavour of cranberries, Koval has created an enticing blend of fruit-forward and bittersweet flavours, surrounded by the crisp, well-rounded notes of Koval Gin’s signature 13 botanicals.
Koval wanted to create a liqueur that was “very much of the Midwest.” That led them to think of cranberries because Wisconsin produces more than half of the world’s supply of the tart, crimson berries. Using Koval’s gin as a base, they added organic Wisconsin- and Michigan-grown cranberries and sugar. It took several months before they found the right balance between tart and sweet.
“This new direction in Koval’s line is a homage to aperitif culture,” says Dr Sonat Birnecker Hart, Koval President and co-founder.
“It is an excellent base for easy, enticing cocktails and spritzes for all seasons. Simply mix with a splash of Prosecco or any sparkling water, or even incorporate into a classic mulled wine when the holidays approach.”
The distinctive rich red colour of this liqueur means that it’s also perfect as a holiday gift. With its stunning laser-cut paper, embossed and foiled label (designed by the award-winning Dando Projects in New York) this Gin unquestionably perfect for that special someone.
Founded in 2008, KOVAL is the largest independently-owned craft distillery in the U.S. and the first distillery in Chicago since the mid-1800s. They are known for their commitment to the community and a unique and sustainable approach to the distilling process using only organic and local ingredients.
Available through speciality liquor outlets, including theoakbarrel.com.au and speakeasyalice.com.au
Here are a couple of cocktail recipes to get you started.
Koval Cranberry Gin Punch
Ingredients
- 7 oz Koval Cranberry Gin Liqueur
- 5 oz Lemon Juice
- 3.5oz Cranberry Syrup (2 parts cranberry juice to one part sugar)
- Top with sparkling wine
Instructions
Add the Cranberry Gin Liqueur, Cranberry Syrup and the Lemon Juice to a large punch bowl with lots of ice. Top with Sparkling Wine and then add Cranberries and Lemon slices for garnish.
Koval Spritz
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Koval Cranberry Gin Liqueur
- 3.5 oz sparkling wine
- Splash of soda
Instructions
Add all ingredients to a wine glass with lots of ice. Serve garnished with a sprig of rosemary and twist of lemon.
Koval Cranberry Gin Fizz
Ingredients
- 1 oz Koval Cranberry Gin Liqueur
- 0.75 oz Koval Dry Gin
- 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 0.75 oz Simple Syrup
- 1 Egg White
- 1.5 oz Soda Water
Instructions
Add the first four ingredients to a shaker and dry shake (without ice) for about 10 seconds. Add 3 or 4 ice cubes and shake very well. Double-strain into a chilled fizz glass and top with club soda.
