Very few “ready-to-pour” cocktails are worth buying, let alone tasting. Charbay Distillery located in the Napa Valley rises to the challenge and more than succeeds. Using 100% green tea leaves, along with a white wine and pot still brandy base, this is an outstanding aperitif that not only works on it’s own, but makes for an intriguing addition to brandy, vodka and blanco rum cocktails.
Charbay Green Tea Aperitif (42 proof)
Visual: Cloudy greenish-gold with settled particulates.
Nose: Lime citrus and green tea candy notes.
Taste: Tangy, with a slightly bitter quality, but quickly balanced with a simple sweetness. The tea gives it a tannic and somewhat dry character. It reminds me of a lime green tea cocktail. Quite engaging.
Finish: An alternating pairing of dry and sour with sweet and fruity comes and goes in a fairly long finish. Refreshing and tantalizing on the tongue.
Overall: Definitely unique and not at all a sweet drink. This is a fully realized cocktail in the glass. Served chilled, it makes for an amazing pairing with soft cheeses, fresh grapes, and charcuterie. I’m a fan!
GSN Rating: A+
For more information go to: Charbay
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