The Ancient Greeks had a deep respect for the violet. The properties of the flower make us feel healthy and happy and also impart a very becoming glow to the skin. Violets also leave a wonderful aftertaste in the mouth, sweetening the breath invitingly.

4 1/2 ounces fresh violets or 1 teaspoon dried
2 1/2 cups sugar
3 violet flowers per person to decorate
1 bottle very dry white wine

Two days before the potion is required, put your fresh or dried flowers into 2 cups boiling water, cover the pan and let cool. Leave this mixture to steep for at least 12 hours. The day before the potion is required, strain the liquid into a heavy-bottomed saucepan and add the sugar. Bring gently to a boil and then simmer for about an hour at low heat until the mixture becomes syrupy. Cool then pour into a bottle that can be stoppered with a cork.

On the day you wish to serve your potion, dip the decorative violets briefly into the cordial, shake off the excess liquid and dust with a little sugar. Allow these to dry for 10 minutes. While you wait, put flute-shaped glasses into the freezer; when they are taken out they will become deliciously frosty. Now put 2 teaspoons of the violet cordial into each glass, fill with the white wine and strew the flowers on top. Serve right away.

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