Brand: Taisun
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.
