Rumple Minze Peppermint Schnapps Review

Color: Rumple Minze is crystal clear, but when you give it a swirl, you can see its weightiness. The liquid clings to the glass, leaving slow streaks that hint at its potent 100 proof.

Nose: The aroma bursts forth with peppermint, reminiscent of Junior Mints and York Peppermint Patties. It's a candy-like scent that invites you in.

Palate: The mouthfeel is luxurious and oily, wrapping your tongue in a velvety embrace before the mint and alcohol take over. The result is an exhilarating rush of bracing mintiness balanced by a hint of sweetness. This creates a unique sensation of both warmth and coolness, making you yearn for a piece of dark chocolate on the side.

Finish: The aftertaste is fresh and mildly numbing, with peppermint leaving a tingling sensation on your tongue, reminiscent of a minty breath freshener.

While Rumple Minze often brings to mind festive shots and novelty cocktails, its origins are more refined. Traditional German and Austrian schnapps resemble eau-de-vie, crafted from mashing fruits and distilling them into a clear spirit. The 1980s saw the rise in popularity of American snacks, such as Rumple Minze, which are typically sweeter and more concentrated.

Introduced in 1981 by the Paddington Corporation, Rumple Minze capitalized on the rising popularity of Schnapps in the U.S., especially during the heyday of sweet drinks like the Fuzzy Navel. Its marketing featured a striking image of a Teutonic warrior on a bear, aimed at capturing attention in men’s magazines like Playboy. With its bold branding, Rumple Minze hit the market at a striking 100 proof—double the ABV of many competitors, like DeKuyper Peachtree Schnapps.

Now under Diageo’s ownership, details about Rumple Minze are somewhat obscure. The bottle claims it’s “crafted with imported flavor,” yet its exact origins remain a mystery. What’s clear is that the flavor is intensely strong and refreshing. Its minty profile provides a cooling sensation, akin to a refreshing breath or the wintery taste of candy canes.

The term "schnapps" derives from the German word "snappen," meaning "to gulp," which explains its popularity as a chilled shot, often paired with chocolate syrup and whipped cream. It’s also a festive choice for seasonal cocktails and can add a delightful minty twist to hot cocoa, as seen in drinks like the Rumplesnuggler. Just remember, due to its high proof and bold flavor, it’s not a suitable substitute for other mint liqueurs like crème de menthe in cocktails.