Frangelico Hazelnut Liqueur

Score: 13/23 Nose: A prominent dry mustiness emerges first, resembling old books with a slight numbing quality. A subtle mint note might be present far in the background, alongside a nutty richness. This richness evokes stale hazelnuts, frankly. While the scents possess some depth, they are questionable, and the overall impression falls short of the rich, full hazelnut liqueur anticipated. Palate: The taste is undeniably nutty, but also features significant earthy, spicy, and herbal elements. The earthiness brings to mind cashews that have oxidized too long. It's definitely sweet, though not to the candied extent one might expect from a nut liqueur. There's even a touch of minerality. The profile is quite intricate but very unbalanced. Had I not known it was a hazelnut liqueur, I would likely appreciate its complexity more. As it stands, Vita Divine Hazelnut offers a purer hazelnut character, despite being lighter and sweeter with more powdered sugar notes. Finish: The finish leans toward the bitter side, with earthy and nutty notes intertwined. The spices have mostly faded, but mineral hints and some herbal flavors still linger. - Conclusion - I generally enjoy the flavor profile of this liqueur. My dissatisfaction stems from its supposed identity as a hazelnut liqueur. It reminds me of tasting Chambord and finding it had more than just raspberry flavor. While I don't mind the chocolate notes in Chambord, it's not something I frequently sip neat, and I'm unsure of its best use in cocktails. This might be easier to mix, but it doesn't negate the lack of a clean, straightforward hazelnut taste. Compared to Disaronno, this is more earthy, bitter, and unusual. I prefer it neat, yet I'm also less certain about how to use it. Upon closer inspection of the bottle, it's noted to be made from "hazelnuts and other secret ingredients." Given this, my appreciation improves. While it may not be ideal for confections, it seems well-suited as a standalone liqueur. In that context, I rank it above Chambord and Disaronno. This is an intriguing liqueur. Beyond its sweetness, many whiskeys could benefit from the flavors it offers. However, I'm still unsure of its best application. Even when focusing on sipping it neat, it's somewhat excessively sweet with a distinct stale quality. I'm placing this in the 12 to 13 range. I've concluded it's generally superior to Chambord and surpasses Disaronno in at least one aspect, which earns it a 13.

Appearance: Shiny gold. Smell: Roasted hazelnuts. Taste and Mouthfeel: Sugary nutty taste, mostly hazelnut but with hints of almond and vanilla in the background. Quite sweet with a somewhat thick texture. A classic spirit with a beautifully focused character. This is pure hazelnut flavor, and delightful in its straightforwardness. However, unlike a lot of liqueurs, this isn't one I care for straight. By itself, it's too sweet and really needs to be watered down or used as a dominant ingredient. Try a shot of this over a half glass of crushed ice, or mix it into strong, unsweetened black coffee or add it to an iced cappuccino. Delicious. Rating: 84/100 (3.75 stars)

Wonderful hazelnut/nutty flavor. Not just a hint, very strong nut presence. Sweet, nutty, chocolatey, smooth, with a pleasant long aftertaste. Vanilla, spice, and some coffee notes. Incredible value for the money. However, it is very sweet.

Presents a full taste of lightly roasted nuts, specifically hazelnut, but is excessively sweet. It has a rich, creamy texture that coats the mouth. This was a long-time favorite spirit, popular in the 1970s and 80s. It blends nicely with coffee and chocolate flavors.

A complex Italian nut liqueur made with nuts, cocoa, vanilla, berries, and herbs. It begins with a nutty profile, develops into a rich and intricate character, and concludes with a lengthy, substantial finish.

Pale gold color. The aroma has hazelnut and vanilla notes. On the palate, you'll find hazelnut and vanilla flavors that are quite straightforward. It's sweet but not excessively so. The texture is moderately thick.