Lavender Berry Royale

In just over a week, my wife and I will celebrate our 4th year of marriage. The traditional wedding anniversary theme for this year is fruits or flowers. It is said that the relationship of man and wife blossoms like a flower and ripens like a fruit. As fruit nourishes the heart and flowers soothe the soul, I present a symbolic compliment with the Lavender Berry Royale.

Ingredients

(10 Servings)

½ cup Sugar

¼ cup fresh Blueberries

¼ cup fresh Blackberries

Rind of 1 lemon

1 cup water

1 ½ oz Monin Lavender Syrup

3 dashes of rose water

Recipe:

On a low heat pan, bring berries, sugar, lemon rind, and water to a gentle boil until the berries begin to pop and color the mixture, forming a soft purple syrup. Set this aside to cool. Then stir in the Rose Water and Monin Lavender Syrup into this mixture. Refrigerate to chill.

To serve, pour ½ oz of the lavender berry syrup into a champagne flute. Top with champagne and garnish with a berry of your choice.

Inspiration & Creation~

The name “Lavender” comes from the Latin word “lavare,” which means “to wash.” For this reason, it was often used in European cultures in bath and laundry Its perfume scent often reminds me of the Yardley talcum powder both my grandmother and mother often used to freshen their face. With its penetrating, yet sweetly floral and calming properties, lavender pairs beautifully with fresh berries, which are anti-oxidants and healing for the heart.

I originally created the Lavender Berry Royale for the brunch champagne cart at Spice Affair to replace the usual Mimosas and Mango Bellini. This floral concoction provides a soft alternative which soothes the palate while eating spicy foods.

The syrup is created over low heat and under a watchful eye, stirring it thoroughly to prevent foaming. In time, the essence of the fruits blends beautifully with the sugar. Once cooled, it is ready for the palate to experience the magical hints of Lavender and Rose. The syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Alternatively, the Lavender Berry Syrup can also be made into a non-alcoholic Spritzer. Simply replace the champagne with sparkling water and serve in a wine glass over ice with a berry garnish. The Lavender Berry Royale is therefore perfect for a Sunday brunch or your next garden party. Herald the summer with this perfect merge of fruit and flowers.