Falernum and Velvet Falernum are both types of spiced-citrusy-sweet syrups that are used to add flavor to Caribbean cocktails. However, there are some key differences between the two.
1. Alcohol Content: The main difference between falernum and Velvet Falernum lies in their alcohol content. Falernum is a non-alcoholic syrup, while Velvet Falernum is an alcoholic version. Velvet Falernum typically has an alcohol content of around 11%, which adds an extra kick to cocktails.
2. Origin: Falernum is a general term for the syrup, while Velvet Falernum specifically refers to the Barbadian version. Barbados is known for producing Velvet Falernum, which has become widely distributed and popular in the cocktail world.
3. Ingredients: Both falernum and Velvet Falernum contain a combination of spices, citrus, and sweetness, but the specific ingredients may vary. Traditional falernum recipes often include flavors like ginger, cloves, almonds, and lime zest. Velvet Falernum, on the other hand, has a proprietary recipe that includes a blend of spices, almonds, and lime.
4. Availability: While falernum can be made at home or purchased from specialty stores, Velvet Falernum is more widely available and can be found in many liquor stores. It is produced and distributed by the renowned brand John D. Taylor's, making it easily accessible for cocktail enthusiasts.
5. Intensity of Flavor: Due to its higher alcohol content, Velvet Falernum tends to have a stronger and more pronounced flavor compared to non-alcoholic falernum. The alcohol helps to extract and enhance the flavors of the spices and citrus in Velvet Falernum, making it a preferred choice for certain cocktails that require a bolder flavor profile.
The main differences between falernum and Velvet Falernum lie in their alcohol content, origin, specific ingredients, availability, and intensity of flavor. Falernum is a non-alcoholic syrup, while Velvet Falernum is an alcoholic version that is widely distributed and known for its bolder flavor. Both syrups can be used to add a delightful Caribbean twist to cocktails, but Velvet Falernum offers an extra kick and is more readily available in the market.