As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can assure you that rose water does not contain alcohol. It is made by distilling the essence of rose petals, capturing their delicate fragrance and flavor. The process involves heating the petals and collecting the steam, which is then condensed into a liquid form. The resulting rose water is purely the essence of the roses, without any alcohol content.
Now, when it comes to the flavor of rose water, it can be a bit polarizing. Some people absolutely love it and find it to be a delightful addition to various recipes, while others may find it overwhelming or even perceive it as “soapy.” This subjective experience is due to the natural compounds present in roses, which can have different effects on our taste buds.
When using rose water in recipes, it's crucial to exercise caution and use it sparingly. Similar to bitters, a few drops can go a long way in infusing dishes or beverages with the subtle essence of roses. Adding too much rose water can easily overpower other flavors and lead to an unpleasant taste.
Personally, I have encountered situations where the proper balance of rose water was crucial in achieving a desired flavor profile. For instance, when brewing a rose-infused beer, I experimented with different amounts of rose water to find the perfect balance. Too much rose water resulted in an overpowering taste, while too little failed to bring out the desired floral notes. It was a delicate process that required a light hand and careful tasting along the way.
To summarize, rose water does not contain alcohol and is made by distilling the essence of rose petals. Its flavor can be polarizing, with some perceiving it as “soapy.” When using rose water in recipes, it's important to use it sparingly, as a few drops can have a significant impact on the overall taste. Treat it like bitters and approach it with caution, allowing for personal taste preferences to guide the amount used.