Hi AlexHiggins (who was a legend by the way ;D)
I don't think that coconut is essential in a base but I'd be interested to know on which form of coconut it is that you are enquiring about?
I've heard of coconut block (creamed coconut) being used in a base but if I'm correct, you can't really detect it in the final taste?
I also believe that if you do add coconut block, it seems to prevent a base from releasing it's oil, which isn't a problem unless you want to spoon it off to make for a healthier base.
Hope that helps AH.
Ray
