This flavour I created - rum infused carrot cake, boozy dark chocolate ganache and toasted coconut flakes - has been a firm client (and family) favourite for some time. I decided to find out what the seasoned tastebuds over at the Guild of Fine Foods had to say about it, as the largest and most trusted food and drink accreditation scheme in the UK.
Whether or not you actually end up being awarded any stars, the judges will give you some detailed feedback on your products, so I was bracing myself for whatever these folks my have to say about my baby. Because as the great Ms Badu says, bear in mind that I'm an artist, and I'm sensitive about my sh*t.
A 1-star rating is only awarded to about 25% of all entries and means that the judges found the food/drink product to be "simply delicious." Drunken Carrot, my precious Drunken Carrot received a 2-star rating, bestowed on under 10% of entries, which means the judges believe it's "outstanding." Damn straight it is!
I got comments from four separate judges, which included:
"This is not only a visual treat, but a flavoursome one, The balance of rum is well-judged as is the sweetness."
"There is a sophisticated balance on display here; dark chocolate, warming spices and a deep rum character are executed perfectly with a fluffy crumb, a smooth ganache and a welcome chew of coconut flakes."
"This is a delightfully adult take on carrot cake."
and my absolute favourite:
"A perfectly balanced cake with a sticky crumb and the right amount of alcohol. The textures of coconut on top and the soft carrot blend well together, and the dark-chocolate ganache has a real intense hit of fruitiness. A triumph!"
Want some Drunken Carrot? Course you do. Get it here.