OPIES Fruits With Alcohol Review
DISCLOSURE -THIS ITEM WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW. ALL THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ARE THE REVIEWER’S OWN.
Reviewed by Colin Hewitt
I’m not new to the Opies brand. In fact, it’s quite a staple in our household, even more so at Christmas because we always use their Stem Ginger in Syrup in our Christmas cake. They’re also a regular go-to for delicious gifts for family members.
I was fortunate to review some of their products in 2020. Therefore, I was very pleased when I received a further opportunity to review three more products with which I am less familiar.
Opies is a long-established company, dating back to 1880, and it specialises in fine quality preserved foodstuffs.
Take a moment to look at their website, which details their entire range; you will find some fantastic gift ideas.
https://www.bennettopie.com
Opies Peaches in 12-Year-Old Brandy (570g)
Forget any expectation of over-soft tinned peaches. With an approximate ABV of 5%, these packed a surprising punch. The large pieces of fruit are soaked in a beautifully matured, twelve-year-old brandy, and a small amount of cognac. The sections of peach are very large (in most cases halves) and incredibly indulgent (peaches in brandy, straight from the jar on Christmas morning, anyone? OK, maybe not, but it is rather tempting). As expected from Opies, this is a product of exceptional quality.
In addition to the recipe on the sleeve of Peach and Blueberry Crumble squares, a few further suggestions are Peach Melba. Used as a lovely gateau topping, and for something completely different, they would be ideal for cutting through fatty dishes such as pork chops or even seasonal goose.
Opies Baby Pears in Amaretto (570g)
With their small pears steeped in Amaretto (less than 5% ABV), Opies achieve a gorgeous almondy, marzipan flavour; it would be impossible to shout Christmas any louder. These were so delicious, again it’s very tempting just to eat them on their own.
As with all fruit steeped in alcohol and sugar, these were sweet, but I didn’t find them overly sickly.
The suggestion on the sleeve is to use them in a Sticky Toffee Pear Pudding with Amaretto Caramel Sauce. I can also imagine them sliced into quarters and served as something unique on a cheeseboard. I’m sure they could also be warmed slightly and served with a thin vanilla custard.
Opies Black Cherrie in Kirsch (570g)
These were truly magnificent. When you open the jar, you can smell Black Forest Gateaux. They weren’t overly sweet, maintaining a natural sour tang; therefore, suitable for both sweet and savoury dishes. I can think of so many uses for these; from Black Forest Gateaux itself, to duck in a black cherry sauce. You could also use them in cocktails, or perk up some Christmas fizz; just remember to use all the delicious syrup.
I’ve spotted so many recipes online utilising these delicious products; however, I think they are equally delightful if served simply on their own, or with a scoop of ice cream. They’re certainly worth considering as a lighter, but still indulgent dessert for after the Christmas feast.
Once opened, all the fruits reviewed should be refrigerated and used within seven days. Believe me, this will not be a problem.
The products can be purchased directly from Opies (link below). Also, from October, they will be available from Morrisons. I’ve also spotted them in other supermarkets, and they have their own store on Amazon (although I’ve noticed that prices are more competitive directly or from supermarkets rather than Amazon).
They would make a fantastic treat for yourself, or I’m sure any foodies in your life would appreciate the items as a gift.
Rating: 5/5 Absolutely delicious.
RRP: approx £8.00 per jar
This product can be purchased here https://www.bennettopie.com