STEAMBOAT Whisky Liqueur Essence 20 ml

STEAMBOAT Whisky Liqueur Essence 20 ml

Picture a balmy summer evening, a glass packed with ice and a drink that tastes of sun-ripened peach, orange and mellow whisky. That is Steamboat in a nutshell. This classic style of liqueur grew out of the idea of rounding off whisky’s edges with fruit and spice, and the result became one of the most versatile bottles behind any bar – too sweet to be called whisky, too full of character to be just another liqueur.

It is precisely this blend of whisky warmth and stone fruit that makes Steamboat so unusually easy to like. Those who find whisky too austere tend to fall for the fruitiness, while the liqueur sceptic appreciates that the sweetness is kept in check by spices and a distinct note of whisky.

Colour & Appearance

Once mixed, the drink takes on a warm, golden amber colour that leans towards apricot. It is clear and glossy, and moves in the glass with the slightly denser, slower swirl of a liqueur.

Nose

The nose is fruity and generous. Ripe peach and apricot jam lead the way, closely followed by orange peel, cherry and vanilla sugar. A little time in the glass coaxes out cinnamon, clove and a gentle note of whisky and oak that gives the aroma depth and warmth.

Palate

On the palate Steamboat is smooth and juicy. Stone fruit dominates – peach, apricot and a touch of plum – backed by sweet orange and lemon that keep things fresh. Vanilla and honey settle over the tongue like a soft blanket, while cinnamon, nutmeg and a faint pepperiness are a reminder of the whisky at its heart. The sweetness is clear but balanced; the style is often described as a dry fruit liqueur, and it is exactly that balance that makes it so easy to mix.

Finish

The finish is medium-long and warming, with candied orange, vanilla and a small spicy glow. The fruit lingers longest and leaves a clean, pleasant impression.

How to Use

The essence is mixed with vodka or neutral spirit plus sugar. One 20 ml bottle makes 750 ml of finished liqueur. Follow the instructions on the label.

Serving Suggestions

• On the rocks with a squeezed wedge of lime – simple and unbeatable.
• With tonic or soda water and plenty of ice.
• With cranberry juice and lime for a tart, pink long drink.
• With lemonade or iced tea on a hot summer’s day.
• In a fruit salad, over ice cream or in a glaze for grilled chicken.

About the Essence

Steamboat has been in our range for a long time and has a loyal band of returning customers. It is for anyone who wants something softer and fruitier than whisky but has grown tired of overly sweet liqueurs. The essence comes in several sizes – from 20 ml up to 25 litres.

In cocktails, Steamboat works as a shortcut to depth of flavour. Because the liqueur already holds fruit, spice, sweetness and whisky, it is often enough to add something sharp – lime, lemon or cranberry – to arrive at a complete drink. That makes it the novice bartender’s best friend.