I had totally missed out on this West Country drink but it does resonate with many – perhaps remembering their grandparents having tipples or even being given watered down versions themselves.

J. R. Phillips is the oldest surviving wine merchants in Bristol. They still make lovage cordial. Founded by William George in 1739. James Phillips became a partner in the firm with William George’s son, James, in 1808. In 1810 the firm moved to Nelson Street, their premises for 150 years. Now owned by Allied Lyons & Whitbread and operating from Avonmouth, their archives are held by Bristol Archives. I intend to research there soon. As well as lovage cordial, J R Phillips manufacture shrub cordial made from West country herbs. The word ‘shrub’ is derived from the Arabic, sharab, meaning ‘to drink’ and was apparently mixed with rum to disguise the taste of the sea water added to the sailors’ tots.

Research awaits but the drink is to hand; brandy and lovage 2:1. Cheers!