Jovial Monk

It's a family legend - the day my dad met my mum's parents for the first time. It was Christmas, 1979, and my dad had proposed after just a few weeks dating. Obviously being a bit nervous my dad didn't turn down the offer of a drink. He was disappointed when he was given a sherry glass full of something bright yellow and sweet but didn't want to look rude by turning it down.

At this point it should be noted that my dad is a big bloke, 6 foot 5, rugby player, great drinker. It should also be noted that my mum's side of the family enjoy a drink a little more than most.

6 little glasses later and dad was unconscious on the sofa. He missed the beautiful lunch my grandma had produced and later rolled into the fire and set fire to his jumper.

On to the main point, the potent tipple. Known in our family as a 'Jovial Monk', made in large quantities and kept in a decanter on the bar (yes, my grandmother's house had a bar!) throughout December. It's as easy as this - 2 parts gin (preferably Gordon's), 1 part dry vermouth, 1 part apricot brandy. Serve at room temperature in SMALL glasses and sip!