Feeling hot, hot, hot? We’ve got you covered with a refreshing take on a cider granita to cool you down, down down.
For over 100 years, the 1911 brand has been orcharding in Lafayette, New York. Today, the family-run business is best known for producing handcrafted, small batch spirits and artisanal hard ciders, staying true to its motto “from tree to bottle.” Playing into the rosé craze of late is the Founders’ Reserve Full Bloom, a sparkling cider that is perfectly blended with locally grown wine grapes and hibiscus. It has a creamy finish with a hint of strawberries — ideal for summertime sipping.
Serve this lovely “granita” as a palate cleanser between courses at your next dinner party or as a light and refreshing after-dinner dessert. If you have rose geranium handy or grow it in your garden, the fragrant leaves add a beautiful flavor.
Makes about 6 cups, or 6-8 servings
1 teaspoon finely minced rosemary
1 teaspoon finely minced lemon thyme
1 teaspoon finely minced rose geranium leaves (optional)
2 teaspoons lemon zest
1/3 cup sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 bottle (750 milliliters) 1911 Founders’ Reserve Rosé
Combine all ingredients in a bowl or large pitcher and whisk until sugar is dissolved.
Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch freezer-proof baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the freezer, making sure the dish lies flat. Let freeze for 4 hour or overnight then rake it into tiny pieces with a fork. Place back into the freezer for at least 2 more hours. Remove and break up ice crystals with a fork right before serving. Serve in frozen glasses and garnish with fresh herb sprigs and edible flowers if desired. Serve immediately.
