As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question: Does grenadine have 1% alcohol?
Grenadine is a syrup that is commonly used in cocktails and mocktails to add a sweet and fruity flavor. Traditionally, grenadine was made from pomegranate juice, but many commercial brands now use a combination of pomegranate and cherry juices to create a thicker consistency and a vibrant, long-lasting color.
It is important to note that most commercially available grenadine syrups do not contain any significant amount of alcohol. However, there are some brands, such as Finest Call, that include a small amount of alcohol in their grenadine syrups. Finest Call grenadine syrup, for example, contains 1% alcohol.
The inclusion of alcohol in grenadine syrups is primarily for preservation purposes. Alcohol acts as a natural preservative, helping to extend the shelf life of the syrup. The small amount of alcohol in grenadine is typically not enough to have any noticeable effect on the flavor or intoxicating properties of the drinks in which it is used.
If you are concerned about the alcohol content in grenadine, there are alcohol-free alternatives available on the market. These syrups are typically made with a combination of fruit juices and sweeteners, without the addition of any alcohol.
In my personal experience, I have used both alcohol-containing and alcohol-free grenadine syrups in various cocktail recipes. While there may be a slight difference in taste and consistency between the two, it is generally subtle and may not be noticeable to the average consumer.
To summarize, while most grenadine syrups do not contain any significant amount of alcohol, some brands like Finest Call include a small percentage (1%) for preservation purposes. However, there are alcohol-free alternatives available for those who prefer to avoid any alcohol content in their drinks. Ultimately, the choice of whether to use grenadine with or without alcohol is a matter of personal preference.