WHAT? Lemonade Hunt
WHERE? Tampere-Lahti-Tampere
WHEN? March 6, 2024, from 10 am to 3 pm
WHY? Lemonade, lemonade!
March 6, 2024, marks a significant day on the gray map of long drinks as a new long drink flavor – gin & lemonade – catapults onto the scene like a rocket! This refreshing citrusy long drink, blending the flavors of lime, lemon, and yuzu fruit, is predicted to surpass in popularity the cult status already achieved by its predecessor. Of course, one must immediately set out to acquire this novelty for testing! Thus, an investigative reporter duo sets their course towards Lahti and Hartwall's brewery shop, where this delight is available in advance. But fear not, for this treat will grace the shelves of stores for everyone's enjoyment on March 12, 2024.
As a side note, it should be mentioned that the duo was so excited about this novelty that they almost set out on the wrong day, as they were enthusiastically discussing this brilliant idea (note: alcohol was not involved) in the wee hours of the morning, causing the dates to joyfully mix up – in the words of JVG, "Tomorrow is tomorrow \ Even if we're already on its side." Fortunately, now we are on the correct side of tomorrow, and the duo can embark on their journey.
The journey begins smoothly to the beat of the Hit Pipe, all the while anticipating the upcoming flavor experience. The duo is particularly curious about how many fellow enthusiasts will venture to the same lemonade havens. If it hasn't been made clear yet, the duo approaches this new long drink entrant with great enthusiasm, but that doesn't prevent a slight nagging doubt from the staunch aficionados of the original long drink toward this new contender.
The reporters finally reach the brewery shop's courtyard and join the crowd to revel in this grand sporting event. In true Finnish fashion, everyone takes their place in line, although the formation begins to resemble more of a vague pile as people inch closer to the entrance while keeping a cautious distance from others.
Through the window, the lemonade crates can already be seen. The investigative journalists observe that instead of small cans on the pallets, there are long ones, which surprises them and their wallets, as they still must buy a whole pallet
There are about 50 people present as the clock approaches twelve, when the doors of the store open.
Finally, the moment everyone has been waiting for arrives – it's available now! The reporters head to pick up their own pallets and then straight to the checkout. It should be noted that the purchase sets both their wallets back by 104 euros. Despite the price or perhaps because of it, the excitement grows even more – gin & lemonade must be excellent! The hands of the reporter without a card itch with excitement, and cracking one open seems imminent, but out of solidarity, they decide to save the first sip for later.
The return journey flies by as the duo listens to timeless and theme-appropriate songs. In the words of M.A. Numminen, "Now it's time for some lemonade, lemonade!" They still have a bit of a way to go, but before they know it, the duo reaches the top perch, Kangasala, and the drinks are placed to cool, eagerly awaiting their first sip.
Finally, it's time to get down to business, and the esteemed panel, the investigative reporter duo, gets to taste and analyze.
The reporters pour the drink into their glasses. The color palette unfolds in lemon yellow.
The reporters take a sniff. The aroma space is filled with citrusy notes.
They sniff again. Yuzu peeks through, bringing fruity acidity to the forefront, charming with its delicate touch
They taste. The symphony of flavors harmonizes beautifully. The gin confidently conducts, adding a charming sophistication.
They sip again. The lemon, lime, and yuzu take center stage. Lemon offers a hint of sweetness and light acidity. Alongside plays lime, deepening the citrus spectrum with its sharp and lively acidity. Yuzu guides the taste buds to the edge, its vibrant and bold flavor inviting the lemon and lime into its embrace, complementing the masterful performance of these three citrus siblings. Yuzu ensures that each sip offers a surprise and a new discovery, taking the drinker on a journey through the spectrum of citrus shades, where each note harmonizes with the skillful accompaniment of gin.
The reporters blow into the breathalyzer... Quite deceptive. The alcohol only becomes apparent in the buzz of the rising intoxication. Damn good. 5/5.