The Sri Lankan Fortress Resort is offering the ultimate verrine - the $14,500 Fortress Stilt Fisherman Indulgence reflecting a centuries old fishing practice that can still be seen along the country’s coastline even today.

A combination of a gold leaf Italian kasata, flavoured with Irish cream and served with a mango and pomegranate compote and a bubbly-based sabayon is topped by an 80-carat aquamarine stone nestled on the handmade chocolate stilt fisherman.

Much is promised: the verrine will enhance relationships, give the eater foresight, courage and happiness, a long and happy marriage. And the recipient is going to be delightfully surprised. An understatement i think.