Falernum is a syrup, sometimes rum based, that is flavored with lime, clove and almond. Additional flavorings such as vanilla, ginger, allspice or nutmeg may be added.

The term "falernum" supposedly comes from the name of the ancient Roman wine "Falernian", though the two are in no ways similar. 

Two brands of falernum are [ingredient=fee-brothers Fee Brothers] (which is non-alcoholic) and John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum (which is 22 proof). Falernum is fairly easy to make at home, but care should be taken to steep the lime peels for only a day or two. 

Some popular cocktails containing Falernum

  • Puka Punch — Light rum, Gold rum, Dark rum, Demerara Rum, Falernum, Crushed ice, Lime juice, Orange juice, Pineapple juice, Passion fruit syrup, Honey syrup, Cherry, Pineapple, Orange
  • The CooCoo Nut — Gin, Absinthe, Crème de Menthe, Falernum
  • Juke Cup — Falernum, Rhum Agricole, Ginger beer, Lime juice, Honey syrup, Cucumber, Pineapple
  • Ma Cherie — Fino sherry, Herbal liqueur, Falernum, Lime juice, Pineapple Gum Syrup, Salt Solution, Celery stalk, Cucumber
  • The Secret Is in the Telling — Rum, Falernum, Lime juice, Simple syrup
  • Smoking Cap — Ruby Port, Gin, Gunpowder Rum, Falernum, Orange bitters
  • Caribbean Coffee Crush — Añejo rum, Falernum, Fernet Branca, Simple syrup, Lime juice, Pineapple
  • McCarren Park Swizzle — Bison grass vodka, Pear eau de vie, Falernum, Elderflower liqueur, Sorel liqueur, Bitters, Lemon juice, Mint
  • The Sicilian Conquistador — Rum, Cynar 70, Amaro, Falernum
  • Mano Negra — Virgin Islands Rum, Falernum, Jamaican #1 bitters, Aphrodite bitters, Lemon juice, Passion fruit syrup