Page 67 - Port Douglas Magazine 43

Madness
WORDS by Sofia Cullen
PORT DOUGLAS, WITH ITS TROPICAL CHARM and laid-back
atmosphere, is often internationally recognised for its proximity
to the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests and palm-fringed
beaches. But there’s another hallmark of the region that ripens
to perfection every summer – the mango. This juicy, golden fruit
has become an inseparable part of the Far North Queensland
(FNQ) identity, celebrated not just as a delicious treat but as a
symbol of the tropics.
MANGOES: A BRIEF HISTORY
Mangoes found their way to Australia in the 1800s, brought over by
early settlers and traders from India and Southeast Asia. The climate
of FNQ proved to be a paradise for the fruit. By the late 19th century,
mango trees were flourishing in the Tablelands region, where warm,
humid summers and fertile soil proved the ideal environment for
cultivation. The Golden Drop Winery alone, located in Mareeba /
Dimbulah has over 17,500 trees, making it one of the largest mango
plantations in Australia. A touch closer to home, the Shannonvale
Tropical fruit Winery offers the opportunity to taste a variety of
Mango wines made from their very own mango plantation.
THE MODERN MANGO
Today, Port Douglas celebrates mangoes not just as a fruit but as
a cultural icon. Every summer, the arrival of mango season marks WHITE WINE PEACH AND MANGO SANGRIA
the beginning of sun-soaked holidays. Local market stalls teem with No visit to our region would be complete without a refreshing drink in
mango-inspired treats, from smoothies to chutneys, and hot days are
often spent cooling off at a creek, freshly cut mango in hand. hand, and this white wine peach and mango sangria is the perfect way to
embrace the holiday festivities.
In the Far North, mangoes take centre stage throughout the summer, Bursting with the sweetness of ripe mangoes and a zesty lime kick, these
whether tossed into a refreshing salad, blended into a gloriously sangrias are as bright and cheerful as an Aussie Summer itself. Here’s an
chilled cocktail (hello holidays!), or simply decorating your tables easy recipe to whip up a batch for your next holiday gathering.
with their delicious aroma and vibrant hues.
MANGO PICNIC ANYONE? Serves: 6-8
INGREDIENTS
I have often found that for the ultimate FNQ experience, enjoying a
mango in the great outdoors is a must. And here’s a hot tip: keep an 1 (750-ml) bottle pinot grigio (or your favourite dry white wine)
eye out for roadside mango stalls where you can grab a whole box to 1 1/4 cups mango rum
share (or not!) and keep your holiday full of tropical flavour. 1 1/4 cups peach schnapps
These are some of my favourite spots: 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1. REX SMEAL PARK 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
Rex Smeal is a local favourite for picnics and lazy afternoons and 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
is often regarded the best sunset viewing spot in Port Douglas. 2 1/2 cups soda
Surrounded by an iconic ring of palm trees, spread out a blanket, bite
into a juicy mango, and watch (or wave at!!) the reef boats returning Peach slices, for garnish
to the marina. The golden glow of sunset over the sea turns this Mango slices, for garnish
simple act into a bucket list activity.
METHOD
2. MOSSMAN GORGE
Mix the Sangria Base: In a large jug or punch bowl, pour in the pinot grigio,
Nestled in the Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge is a stunning mango rum, peach schnapps, lemon juice, lime juice, and orange juice. Stir
location where nature’s beauty and tranquillity take centre stage. everything together to combine the flavours.
Pack a few fresh mangoes and head to the Gorge for a picnic by Add the Fizz: Just before serving, stir in soda for a refreshing, bubbly finish.
the crystal-clear waters. The cool rainforest canopy provides a
perfect respite from the summer heat, and there’s nothing quite like Chill and Garnish: Add ice cubes to the jug to keep everything cool.
the combination of a refreshing dip and the sweet taste of mango. Garnish with slices of fresh peach and mango for a tropical flourish.
The sounds of the river and the calls of native birds add to the Serve: Pour the sangria into glasses, making sure to include some of the
experience, making this a memorable way to savour the season. fruit in each serving. Enjoy!
3. REX’S LOOKOUT SOME EXTRA TIPS
Located on the Great Barrier Reef drive between Cairns and Port Making this sangria ahead of time? Add the soda just before serving to
Douglas, approximately 20 minutes south of Port Douglas, Rex’s keep the bubbles crisp and fresh.
lookout is perched high above the coastline and is yet another of Add blueberries or a sprig of mint for a pop of colour and freshness.
the region’s idyllic picnic locations. This scenic spot offers sweeping
views of the Coral Sea framed by a backdrop of rainforest covered Want to switch things up? Coconut rum works just as well as mango rum
mountains, making every bite of your golden mango that little bit for a slightly different tropical vibe.
sweeter. If you are lucky enough to get the timing right, watch
parasailers leap from the cliffs and glide out over the ocean. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a
Whether you’re discovering mangoes for the first time or rekindling picnic, these mango sangrias are guaranteed to spread the holiday cheer.
a lifelong love, there’s no better place to enjoy these gems than
in tropical Port Douglas. So, this summer, grab a mango, find your Raise a glass to summer, to mango season, and to the magic of holidaying
perfect spot and let the magic of mango season sweep you away. in the tropics. Cheers!