Tia Maria

No, in any meaningful sense. Tia Maria is a Jamaican coffee liqueur made with cold brew coffee, Jamaican rum, and vanilla, bottled at 20% ABV. The combination of alcohol and high sugar content acts as a preservative against microbial spoilage. An opened bottle stored at room temperature away from direct light will remain in acceptable condition for two to three years. The coffee aromatic character will gradually diminish over extended time, but the product will not spoil.

Tia Maria typically retails from €22 to €30 for a standard 70cl bottle at 20% ABV. As one of the world's best selling coffee liqueurs, it is positioned at an accessible price point that reflects its mass market distribution and high production volumes. For a more concentrated, higher proof coffee liqueur alternative with greater cocktail versatility, Kahlúa Especial at 36% ABV or Mr. Black Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur represent higher quality options at a modest price premium.

Yes. Tia Maria is made from Jamaican rum, cold brew coffee extract, and vanilla. Rum is distilled from sugar cane molasses, which contains no gluten. The coffee and vanilla additives contain no gluten. Tia Maria is considered gluten free and safe for individuals with gluten intolerance and coeliac disease. Individuals with coffee sensitivity should note that real cold brew coffee extract is a primary ingredient and the caffeine content of a standard measure is a relevant consideration.

Tia Maria's roasted coffee, dark chocolate, vanilla, and rum character pairs most naturally with cold milk or cream in a Tia Maria Latte. Shaken with vodka and fresh espresso it forms a Tia Maria Espresso Martini, which benefits from the rum character adding depth below the coffee. Combined with Baileys and a measure of whiskey it creates a B52 or Irish Coffee variant. Over vanilla ice cream as an affogato substitute it delivers a dessert serve that works well without any additional preparation.

Tia Maria is a Jamaican coffee liqueur, first created in the 1940s using Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee, Jamaican rum, vanilla, and sugar, bottled at 20% ABV. It is now owned by Illva Saronno, the Italian group that also produces Disaronno. Despite Jamaican origins and ingredients, production has at various points taken place in different locations. It is one of the world's best selling coffee liqueurs and a classic component in coffee cocktails, tiramisu, and dessert applications.