A New Name For Your Liquor Cabinet

There is something far too tempting about sweet, creamy liquors. They pack a punch while serving as an adaptable additive to countless signature drinks. Amarula has managed to be a South African success, as well as a must for the evening dinner table.

“Ama-huh?” What is it? Picture the raw nectar of a Marula Tree (commonly known as, the Elephant Tree) being extracted and destoned. The fruit’s pulp is set to ferment, then the 'wine' is distilled and aged in barrels of French oak for up to two years, so that spices and characters of flavor are absorbed completely. Afterwards, all is tossed into a mixing bowl to marinate in sweet cream. The alcoholic content weighs in at 17%, similar to most spiked creams, and packs a husky punch for any sweet tooth. Amarula makes the lofty claim that no two bottles are the same, like their elephants, marking their product as a symbol of originality and notably high taste. In other words, Amarula is not for cheap vodka nights.

But there is no judging a book by its cover. To see what all the hype was about, it was time to engage in this cocktail ‘snobbery.’ Using primal internet skills, one White Russian (made with the Amarula in addition to the Kaluha) and one regular Amarula on-the-rocks was assembled in under five minutes. Both looked and smelled absolutely enticing.

The mixed drink was wholly heightened in taste and texture. It was creamier and more delightful than a regular White Russian. As for the solo debut, the drink’s essence settled into the tastebuds for a long night’s stay – a deliciously fun guest. Hints of mango, caramel, sweet cream, and bold vanilla dances on the tongue with every sip. It was like drinking pudding; the kind of pudding that comes in its own fancy cocktail glass and gets you tipsy. An adult’s dessert.

Unlike most bottles of liquor and alcoholic beverages, Amarula features an animal on the cover. Just in case buyers were not sure where the liquor came from, a fierce elephant adorns the label’s midsection with patches of Marula fruits at both sides. The big guy stares into consumers’ very soul as they debate a second helping of the good stuff. Why not, it is fruit, right?

For the non-amateurs of the liquor-loving world, perhaps a mixed drink is the best and only way to truly enjoy nature’s candy. Amarula goes best in drinks that highlight its creamy consistency, such as Chocolate Martinis, Espresso Martinis, Pina Coladas, White Russians, spiked milkshakes and even brewed coffee. The most enticing recipe found was The Dark Continent’s, which takes a Mochacino to a whole new level. Furthermore, the drink is paired with dessert items, found most commonly at cake or coffee hour. It is the perfect addition to the close of any party or social gathering as a sweet reminder of the good times had.

This humble fruit of Phalaborwa, South Africa is an incredible accomplishment for the global alcoholic marketing world. It’s been sold in over 100 countries worldwide and has won numerous awards for its creativity and taste. It takes Olympic gold in spirit rank, worth and competition. Amarula is among the top liqueur brands in the world, at a price point of around $20, varying from state to state. The Marula Tree is a sacred part of African culture, thus making it worth every dollar spent.

A big thanks to the creation of this cream for satisfying a more sophisticated palette.