This is my first time experiencing a specifically Tahitian vanilla extract variety, or at least that I can think of and almost certainly one this high quality. This is certainly not the most economical vanilla extract you'll find. But it is worth the cost in my opinion.
I now have three different varietals from these guys in my cupboard and it seems like they all have their own purposes to which they are best suited.
The bourbon is your classic punch you in the face vanilla. It's potent, it's deep, and it's almost certainly what you want for things like brownies, chocolate cake or chocolate chip cookies.
But this Tahitian vanilla is a different beast. I'm actually quite surprised just how nuanced it is. It's much more floral, aromatic, and subtle. It's got that wedding cake, vanilla ice cream thing going on that is hard to describe unless you already know what I mean. This is the one you want for any kind of white or yellow cakes, more subtle cookies like sugar cookies, buttercream frostings, custards, and I would suggest any kind of cookie calling for vanilla that doesn't also call for brown sugar or spices. Molasses and deeper or more prominent spice notes would probably overshadow the finer nuances of this vanilla whereas in something like a butter cookie, this vanilla can bring it to life. In short this is the vanilla I would reach for one vanilla is the star of the show. Wherever vanilla is serving a background role or is forced to compete with a larger supporting cast, then I pull out the bourbon.
If you're looking for something in the middle go with the Mexican. It's kind of a halfway point between the two.
If on the other hand you're looking for something slightly more economical that's just a really great reliable vanilla, NM makes one that is just labeled pure vanilla and not single variety. That's a great everyday vanilla or for anyone interested in varietals.
Cane Alcohol (60%) Water, Oil of Butter Almond.
