Kate Addis is the managing director of Addmore Foods - a small
company based in Geraldine. In 2002, Kate formed the company
for the specific purpose of manufacturing and marketing a most
unusual beverage. Addmore's Cuisine Award-winning Elderflower
cordial was launched 9 years ago and her newest Award-winning
sparkling beverages have since become very popular.
Prior to 2002, Kate spent four years in the UK, and while
working in Dorset became aware of the unusual but pleasant taste of
a cordial made from elderflowers and its properties as a folk
medicine.
Sambucus nigra, or the black
elder.
In the 18th Century it was regarded as "the medicine
chest of the country people".
Elderflowers for many years have been recognised as having
natural properties which "cleanse the blood, purify the system and
soothe the nerves in a revitalizing way"
She was given, what was until then, a closely guarded family
recipe for the drink, believed to be centuries old.
At the time she was very grateful for the trust reposed in her
but thought little of any practical application for the
recipe. That is, until she returned to New Zealand.
Living in Geraldine Kate became aware of the prolific growth of
elderberry trees around the countryside. She remembered the
ancient recipe and considered the viability of manufacturing and
marketing.
Kate experimented with the recipe in a domestic kitchen, using
local Elderflowers. Various formulations were prepared and
tested on locals and she subsequently came up with a drink that was
almost universally liked. This is the product that Kate
produces and markets today - a non-alcoholic, natural cordial
without preservatives. The cordial has distinct flavour,
described as "a delicate, sweet balance of something lichee or
muscat grape with a hint of floral aroma". Also in her range,
Kate now produces Sparkling beverages including the Cuisine
Award-winning Sparkling Elderflower Rose'.
Addmore's special blend of freshly-picked Elderflowers taste of
warm summer days, and is best enjoyed ice cold, served with friends
and family.