Q&A with Liz Bagheri of Balcairn Cordials

How did you get into the business of making cordials?

Balcairn Cordials was set up by Chris Constable some years before I came to New Zealand with the aim of using the abundant supply of hedgerow produce.

I came to New Zealand in October 2017 when Chris was winding up his business and planning to finish after the Christmas markets. Chris not only offered me the business but took time ‘showing me the ropes’ and I am very grateful to him for this.

What was the appeal of making cordials for you?

My Mum always used hedgerow produce for making jam and cordial, so the idea was not new to me. She always had bottles of elderberry cordial for the winter months as a good remedy for sore throats and colds. I was keen to take over the business as I liked the idea of making good use of hedgerow produce but I also saw it as an opportunity to get to know the local community that I had recently joined.

Have you made any changes to the business since taking it over?

I have increased the range and currently make nine different flavours, six of them I make all year round and a further three as limited editions.

Where do your ingredients come from?

I use as much local and hedgerow produce as possible such as in the Honey, Lemon, and Ginger Cordial – using the excellent honey from Waipara Honey and local spray free lemons from Sam in the yellow food truck (both at Amberley Farmers Market). This one is a year-round favourite.

The Wild Plum is made using the abundant supply of hedgerow plums.

Your favourite flavour and why?

Lemon and Chilli – another one for those who like a little spice in their drinks and a personal favourite.

What else should we try?

Elderberry and Lime – good all year round either hot or cold or a good mixer with gin.

Fiery Ginger – by popular demand, for those who like stronger ginger.

Your most requested flavour is?

Elderflower – an all-round favourite

What ingredients go into your limited edition flavours?

Limited edition flavours include:

Elderflower Rosé – elderflower with a hint of rosewater, a subtle combination of two delicate floral flavours and a refreshing summer drink.

Mulled Elderberry – elderberry and sweet spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamon etc, a warm drink for winter.

Wild Cherry made from wild Siberian cherries growing in abundance on Garry River Farm in Okuku (thank you to Nigel Wilson) and another good one for gin cocktails.

Where can people find you?

I sell my cordials at Amberley Farmers Market on Saturday mornings and Oxford Farmers Market on Sundays and at occasional markets through the year and you can also find them stocked at the Oxford Craft Co-op.

Do you enjoy trading at the markets?

I enjoy markets because of the variety of people that you meet – some as regular customers and others that are just passing through and for the camaraderie of the other stallholders.

Best part of your job?

I love it when people enjoy my cordials and come back for more.

Website/contact info?

You can find me on Facebook at Balcairn Cordials or call in at one of the markets.