Timberline Tonic Syrup

Timberline Tonic Syrup opts for a fairly straightforward approach. In essence they take a historical approach. Before tonic water, the tonic in a gin and tonic was quinine powder.

Thus the rather simple ingredient bill of Timberline Tonic Syrup. Eschewing much of the citrus and spice elements others add to create a unique flavor, Timberline is quinine, water, sugar and citric acid.

But I’ll tell you what the real revolution here is. Timberline Tonic Syrup is perfectly clear, Despite the blue bottle, this is the tonic syrup for folks who want to get into tonic syrup but can’t get past the color.

Granted, they use an extract rather than Cinchona powder directly. But I have found that the color is an issue for tonic syrup acceptance behind the bar and in homes. Appearing clear as if using a tonic water is the kind of revolution that could get Timberline tonic behind bars around the world.

Tasting Notes

There’s almost no nose. Whatever flavor it has is held close to the chest when poured on its own.

Sipped, Timberline Tonic Syrup is aggressively sweet and bitter. It’s almost cloying. The quinine has a strong calciferous edge to it— distinctively chalky especially on its own.

I find that this mostly goes away when mixed with soda water. It’s pleasantly bitter with a moderate sweetness— in others words Timberline Tonic Syrup could pass for a tonic water once mixed.

Gin and Tonic

I mixed it up with Tiki Gin. Timberline Tonic Syrup steps away allowing the pineapple and lime notes to come through early. The finish has a pleasant but only mild bitterness to it. Though it lasts for a long time residing only gradually on the palate.

Overall, Timberline Tonic Syrup

The color of Timberline Tonic is striking for a tonic syrup. I’m in love with how it appears. The flavor is good, but not as memorable. It ends up being quiet but effective.

Timberline Tonic Syrup is the the tonic for drinkers who don’t want to embark on a new journey into tonic syrup. It’s the tonic syrup for those who just want a well-made substitute for tonic water to go with their home soda-maker.