> > So I saw the Starbucks coffee liquor on the shelf today and must say
> >
> > it's a very attractive bottle. I was wondering if anyone has any
> > experience with it, as I'm rather disappointed in the "coffee flavor"
> >
> > (or complete lack thereof) in Kahlua and wanted a nice obvious coffee
> >
> > flavor in my coffee drinks.
didn't even know that starbuck's had a liquer out! so can't comment on
that. however for an enjoyable espresso flavour I'd recommend you try 'Illy
coffee liquer' (Although I'm not 100% sure if its available in US or in your
particular state)
> I use Kahlua and fresh espresso in something such as an espresso
> martini. I don't think of them as interchangeable as the Kahlua has
> sweetness and other notes (like vanilla) that straight coffee does
> not. If you're talking about coffee drinks (liquers + hot coffee)
> than you shouldn't need to add much coffee flavor to it. Kahlua (or
> the SB) is nice in a Keoki or Mexican Coffee but for me it seems a
> tad redundant, I'd rather add things like Cointreau, Frangelico,
> Bailey's and chocolate liquer (not all together!).
agree completely.
>
> > Secondly, in trying various chocolate liquors I can't help get past
> >
> > the artificial and singular flavor of those liquors. Mostly I use
> > them in my chocotini (Stoli Vanilla helps to add a little
> > complexity). Any suggestions for a more complex, more CHOCOLATEY
> > liquor?
I've heard of Godiva, but haven';t had the chance to try them. Mozart makes a
fine range of chocolate liquers. Although not incredibly complex, they do tend
to be very rich in the chocolate flavour.
Frangelico works beautifully in a chocolate Martini too. (credit to Ian
Johnson)
I make my chocolate martinis:
25ml Vodka
20ml chocolate liquer
10ml Frangelico
10ml Xanath Vanilla Liquer
5ml Amaretto
5ml Butterscotch Schapps
Stir with ice and strain in to a room temperature Martini glass. serve with a
chocolate rim.
You will find the liquers marrying together well and offering a lot more depth
to the drink as opposed to a one dimensional vodka and cacao combination. Yes
its a bit sweet, but most people who ask for a chocolate martini have a sweet
tooth anyway. Yes its not as strong and yes its delicious!
--
As a great bartender once said: "I don't mix drinks, I mix people"