Product Review: EGA
So what is EGA you might ask.
EGA is an innovative alcohol free grape based drink that was introduced to the market in 2007. The vibrant salmon pink beverage, in a characteristic square shouldered bottle, sold out following its introduction after the 2007 grape harvest and the Paarl farm where it is produced has seen a lot of interest in the product over the last few months. EGA (which coincidentally is AGE in reverse) is a unique and vibrant combination of early harvested grapes and natural Rooibos and pomegranate extracts. Although it is alcohol free, EGA has similar flavour characteristics and profile to a white wine and offers a fantastic alternative to enjoy with a meal. Pomegranate and indigenous Rooibos tea are two of nature’s leading sources of antioxidants and coupled with grape juice create a refreshing and invigorating drink with added health and anti-ageing benefits. EGA
should be served well chilled or over ice and can be used to add zest to fruit punches or cocktails.
Anti – Oxidants
Grapes, pomegranates and tea all contain polyphenols, which are a form of antioxidant found in certain foods. Other common
antioxidants include Vitamins A, C and E, Beta-carotene and Lycopene.
Antioxidants are substances or nutrients in our foods which can prevent or slow oxidative damage to our body. When our body
cells use oxygen, they naturally produce free radicals (by-products) which can cause oxidative damage. This can include heart
disease, cardiovascular problems, diabetes, cell and DNA damage and premature ageing. Free radicals are also linked with the
development of cancers. Antioxidants act as “free radical scavengersâ€, interacting with and stabilising them, and hence prevent
and repair damage done by these free radicals.
Common sources of antioxidants include green or orange fruits and vegetables, tomatoes and certain nuts, grains and meats.
Sources: www.cancer.gov; www.healthcastle.com
Suggested EGA Recipes
EGAtini
4 pts EGA
1 ½ parts Vodka
½ part freshly squeezed lime juice
Add above to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake till well chilled. Rim a Martini glass with sugar and pour in the mix. Garnish with a few pomegranate seeds at the bottom of the glass and a twist of lime on the rim.
Virgin EGA Punch
1 part EGA
2 parts Mango or Peach juice
Pomegranate syrup
Mint leaves and lemon round slices
Lots of cracked ice cubes
Combine and serve in a large glass jug, or individual glasses topped with pomegranate syrup.
We hope you enjoy this product as much as we do!
