i was looking for an alternative to constantly using agave, as i am trying to wean myself away from the processed (even raw agave has some sort of processing), and accidentally stumbled across the wonderful, slightly sweet and slightly syrupy texture of halawi date soak water. so far, this has been a great substitute, when used along with dates, or with a banana or other solid fruit sweetener. it simply helps to carry the flavor into a flowing, liquid form, without the overbearing tendency of agave nectar. i hope you to can rethink what we consider sweet and delicious, and train your brain and taste buds to appreciate subtlety. enjoy!