Local cordial is
flavour of the month

David and Martina Burns from Richmount near Carrickboy are hopeful of tasting sweet success with their venture into cordial production.

The couple recently established the Richmount Cordial Company, based on the positive reactions Martina received to a homemade recipe she had been producing.

“I think we’ve spotted a gap in the market,” she explained. “People are now looking for a nice non-alcoholic drink.”

Taking the plunge, the couple - who also produce an award-winning sweetcorn crop on their farm - have set aside three acres of land and planted almost 1,000 elderflower bushes.

“It’s been on the market since February and it’s been very well received,” she continued. “Retailers are delighted to sell local Irish products. Sales are good and we’re amazed at some of the figures.

“We recently attended a Food Academy programme and through that we got listed with SuperValu and are in discussions with them to be stocked in some of their stores.”

Asked what sets their product apart, Martina said that, “We add only natural ingredients, no artificial sweeteners or preservatives, or flavourings. We use only fresh flowers, we don’t use concentrate.

Martina also shared ideas on how to best serve their cordial.

“We recommend that people dilute to taste and add more sparkling water if they are watching their calorie intake,” she said. “It also makes a great alcohol substitute but can also be added to prosecco, vodka, soda, gin and tonic... the only limit is your imagination.

The couple have plans to add other cordials to the Richmount range in the near future.

“It looks like one of the flavours will be elderberry, which would make for a lovely Christmas drink,” Martina revealed.

For more information, visit www.richmountcordials.ie.