“A tempting blend of Italian brandy, Mediterranean citrus and vanilla spice.”
I have to say this one was fun! I’ve decided to start working my way through Liqueurs first since they’re generally more flavored than say just vodka or whiskey, lol.
The Tuaca mini (50 ml) comes in a clear plastic bottle somewhat reminiscent of a wine bottle that shows a light golden liquid inside. It smells, to my untrained nose, like alcohol, ha, ha. A sip sets my mouth on fire but once the burning dies down I think I taste a hint of vanilla but it may just be wishful thinking…
I decided to try it with ginger ale in about a 50/50 mix, with ice – I believe that’s called “on the rocks” – and I stirred it with a plastic knife. I like this one very much! I think we have another keeper! It’s light and refreshing and the ginger ale lets the vanilla and citrus flavors shine through much clearer while cutting down on the sharpness of the brandy.
So look at me being all adulty, sitting in my favorite chair, drinking a grown-up drink, watching my favorite show and eating Chicken in a Biscuit – I mean my fancy cheese and expensive crackers, ahem…
Their website gives us the following recipes:
Tuaca Pineapple Spritzer
2 oz TUACA
4 oz pineapple juice
1 ½ oz of lemon-lime soda
Pour all ingredients in a tall glass filled with ice. Stir gently and garnish with a pineapple and lime wedge.
Tuaca Toddy – for my sister who likes hot drinks!
1 oz TUACA
Apple Cider
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Add TUACA to warm apple cider. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg on top.
Tuaca Whiskey Punch
1 oz TUACA
1 oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon
1 oz orange juice
1 oz cranberry juice
Pour ingredients into a rocks glass over ice and stir. For a group, change ounces to parts and add slices of oranges.
Those definitely look interesting and I’m going to have to get me some pineapple juice… uh huh… Here’s my handy dandy personal assessment:
Bottle Esthetics: The clear plastic shows through to a pretty golden liquid and the label is busy on both sides of the name with fancy lettering, a stylized lion and lines. It holds my interest enough to earn it a “Hmmm…”
Scent: Warm with a intriguing hint of vanilla.
Viscosity: Water thin.
Taste: Warm – I’m guessing that’s the brandy? – then vanilla. Maybe, just maybe, a hint of orange.
Versatility: Judging by the number of recipes on their website there must be many ways to use this one but I’m really enjoying it with the ginger ale right now.
Overall Score: 8 out of 10