Cordials: A Luxurious Non-Alcoholic Drink from the Past

Cordials are non-alcoholic drinks that are made with fruit juice, sugar, and spices. They were popular in the 17th and 18th centuries, especially among the wealthy and upper classes. Cordials were often served as a digestif after meals, and they were believed to have medicinal properties. Some common types of cordials include:

* Rosewater cordial: made with rosewater, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and cloves.
* Orange flower water cordial: made with orange flower water, sugar, and spices like citrus peel and nutmeg.
* Ginger cordial: made with ginger, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and cloves.
* Lemon cordial: made with lemon juice, sugar, and spices like citrus peel and nutmeg.

Cordials were often served in small glasses or cups, and they were considered a luxury item because of the expensive ingredients used to make them. Today, cordials are still enjoyed as a special treat, especially during the holidays or at formal events.