I have only used vanilla from my local stores - has anyone tried Mexican vanilla? I've looked at ordering it several times but have held off because of the price - also, what about Madagascar vanilla?
Is the double strength Watkins good? Maybe I should compare local varieties first to see if I can recognize a difference. Any one have favorites and are they worth the price difference?

I love, love, love mexican vanilla. I get it double strength from a local store. They also sell a vanilla powder which I like.

I've got the Madagascar "elite" brand of vanilla and I don't get it. It smells funny to me. I even took it back thinking it was bad. I don't detect any substantial taste/ value/ difference, good or bad. I'm just gonna use up what I have and go back to what works for me.

I too, have been curious about the Watkins brand. At Christmas in the cookie magazines they offer a free sample and every year I forget to call. I think I'll write it on my calendar right now!

I LOVE Watkins! It only has 8% alcohol, unlike other brands that reek of alcohol. Alcohol burns out, not leaving much behind, so that is why I use Watkins because it is a great vanilla flavor you can actually taste.