Monday, December 24, 2012

Libation of the Week: White Gourd Drink

Name: White Gourd Drink
 
Brand: Taisun

Place of Purchase: Oriental Suppermarket in Syracuse, NY

Country/Region of Origin: Taiwan

Tasting Conditions: Chilled in a glass

Price in New York: $1.99 for 10.8 oz

Description:  A crisp, clean summer drink

Flavor:  Caramel and nut
 
Mouth-feel: Clean, slightly astringent

Aroma: Burnt sugar and floral

Notes:  White gourd, also known as winter melon, is found almost everywhere in Asia.  This cucurbit can be eaten as a vegetable, but it is also employed in candy- and drink-making.  For New Years, crystallized winter melon is often paired with candied coconut strips as an offering and a treat.  This beverage is not what I expected.  I did expect the clean mouth-feel, but I was used to either candied or stir-fried winter melon.  This luxurious, caramel-flavored treat was a pleasant and refreshing surprise.  With drinks like this, I often don't know what I'm getting myself into.  Sometimes, I get pennywort.  Other times, I get liquid gold.

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