I used to really like the flavored coffee Highlander Grogg, but now all I can taste is the artificial aftertaste. Is there a non-artificial additive that I can add to a different variety of coffee to make it taste like Highlander Grogg?
I think it's the butterscotch flavor that distinguishes Highlander Grogg, but I don't know what the history of the flavor is. If it's as Scottish as the name implies, I'm guessing it's got some deep rich history.
For certain high-intensity flavours, often people use extracts (think stuff like "vanilla extract") or essential oils (i.e., oils that are the "essence" (or are infused with same) of a given plant or something). This allows you to use a very small amount of the flavouring substance in something like coffee or confectionery or so.
However, certain extracts or might just be artificial themselves, and give you that same "off" after-taste. This might be what's in your bag of beans/grounds and why you're in this predicament in the first place. The ingredient label might have some hints but is probably not helpful ("natural and/or artificial flavourings" perhaps). Here's one (judgemental) example of how the ubiquitous hazlenut flavoured coffee (from Serious Eats) could be made.
For butterscotch that you cite, for example, you could use something like butterscotch extract (example from Amazon). You could also use some other caramel or butterscotch syrup, or even make your own.
For particular flavours, after you've identified them, you might ask over at Seasoned Advice. But I'm glad you asked here first :)
Happy hacking!
Oh yeah! I used to get that stuff! Cameron's if I remember. I believe the flavor was a nice mix of caramel, whisky, butterscotch and vanilla. Maybe a little cinnamon too. I thought it was reminiscent of spiced rum... maybe a rum flavored extract could get you where you are going.
I wouldn't be surprised if the name is just creative copy and there isn't any kind of actual history behind it. If it is though, I would love to know!
