Available in most supermarkets, 'Kahlua' is a coffee flavoured liqueur. When people think of coffee and alcohol, the first thing which generally comes to mind is 'Tia Maria' - but Kahlua is stronger and less sweet than its exotic rival.

Kahlua is simple - Cane Spirit, Mexican Coffee and vanilla - that's it. You can purchase a 700ml bottle for 13.69 from Sainsbury, and although it is expensive, it does last a while if you're a sensible drinker. The product can vary a fair bit in terms of its alcoholic content, and it will depend on the manufacturer, but the range is generally between 20-35%.

There are some great cocktails which use Kahlua as their basis, and one of them is the 'Mudslide' - a favourite of mine, which can be created in the following manner;

Take 60ml (4 tbsp) of Vodka, and mix with the same amount of Kahlua. Now add the same quantity of Bailey's Irish Cream and mix with crushed ice in a shaker - simple yet delicious!

I like the taste of Kahlua, but prefer not to drink it on its own. One common practice is to simply add chilled milk and ice, and consume it as a long drink. This concoction tastes a bit like a potent coffee milkshake, but it's by no means bad.

I recommend the product as part of a cocktail makers essential kit, as it can be used in a variety of creations. Apart from the Mudslide which I mentioned earlier, it has uses in the B-52, Baby Guinness, and Black Russian. Give it a go!