Giffard Banane du Brésil

Score: 19/23 Smell: My first thought is that it reminds me of banana Laffy Taffy. However, with more sniffing, greater depth emerges. It has a drier character with green banana notes alongside apple, mango, and orange. It's a pleasant aroma, assuming you appreciate banana, and the complexity isn't endless. Taste: A syrupy sweetness dominates. There's abundant banana flavor, complemented by pleasant green notes and significant orange. Hints of caramel, reminiscent of creme brulee, appear periodically. This is a surprisingly delightful palate that's actually quite drinkable on its own. I'm curious about its best use in mixed drinks. Finish: The banana taste persists. It becomes more bitter and slightly more floral, but not unpleasantly so. - Final Thoughts - This is genuinely excellent. I'm considering a score of at least 15, potentially up to 19, with a slim possibility of 20. This is truly perplexing me. It possesses a touch of Laffy Taffy and some natural banana essence. It's akin to a significantly improved version of banana Laffy Taffy. Initially, I thought this might be worth a 19 neat, but it was hard to be certain. Trying it with spirits proved somewhat disappointing, even when mixed with light rum. It worked better with certain spirits, like some tequilas. However, its true strength lies in tiki cocktails (as expected). It shows great potential. While not always perfect, the fundamental flavor is very good, and it greatly enhances many drinks. I spent time thinking an 18 would be appropriate, perhaps even a 17, but no lower. Then, I sampled it in tiki drinks (with spirits, pineapple juice, lime juice, etc.), and it performed exceptionally well. You must desire banana, but when crafting a tropical drink that calls for it, this is the ideal choice. I don't think a 20 is warranted, but a 19 seems fitting. Another 19 for a liqueur, though comparable options exist, often suited for different situations. Honestly, this is a superb banana liqueur. For banana in your tiki drink, it's an outstanding option. It's not revolutionary, but unlike many single-flavor liqueurs, it perfectly achieves its intended profile. I would definitely keep this on hand and use it regularly. Thanks to a friend for the sample! Sample exchanges are fantastic for this reason: I wouldn't have tried this otherwise.

This banana liqueur ranks second among banana liqueurs, surpassed only by another brand. It's frequently used in cocktail recipes and consistently improves them. The cost is a bit high but justified by the quality. The aroma is dominated by ripe banana and caramel. The taste follows with banana flavors, reminiscent of green bananas with considerable sweetness. It's considerably less viscous than another brand. The finish is brief, without burn, and carries hints of vanilla. Similar to another brand, this banana liqueur is a great choice. Both are excellent in drinks; the primary distinction is that the other brand is slightly superior and richer when consumed straight. It also costs a bit more, so if you're seeking a slightly more affordable yet still exceptional option, particularly for cocktails, this is a reliable selection.

Less potent than Tempus Fugit, but equally impressive. This one is less intense, cleaner, and more sophisticated. Also less sweet. Still quite sweet, just not as rich and prominent. Very nice when paired with cognac.

Remarkable. Deadly even. It's sugary, with delightful banana notes. Sweet, but not excessively so, nor artificial. This would be a nice addition to tiki cocktails.

Tastes like a frozen banana that's been thawed for an ice cream-like experience. The banana flavor is very authentic, not artificial or overwhelming, and fantastic in cocktails.