Drink Week: Sonoma Syrups Rounds It Out
We’ve look at tea and smoothies so far this week- and now it’s time for something a little different to finish up our Week of Drinks. These aren’t technically drinks, but the ingredients for a variety of drinks, or additives for your beverages.
Simple syrups, made a little more complicated- we tried several of Sonoma Syrups flavors, and it’s not the first time we’ve taken a look at syrups. These are a little more more refined than the Torani that you probably know from your local coffee shop- Sonoma uses only pure cane sugar, no artificial colors or preservatives, and offers a variety of more obscure tastes.
Lavender, for instance. Hard to use, of course, but adds a touch of class to vanilla and other light or citrus flavors, and items like sorbets. It’s pretty mild tasting, but quite aromatic. Their Cinnamon syrup is stronger than other versions, and be sure to shake these bottles before using because often you can see sediment- probably a sign of better quality spices. The White Ginger could be stronger, but makes for a pretty easy gingerade with the simply addition of your choice of waters. And their Mint syrup makes a mean mojito. The only real flavor we had trouble with was the Pomegranate Orange- a little off-tasting and a bit hard to find uses for as well.
Syrups make great additions for coffee and tea, and as gifts for those who aim to be baristas. And don’t forget to glaze your BBQ with something a little different- Sonoma Syrups are available at some specialty stores or online for about $8 each, and many more flavors are available.
