The Old Fashioned is arguably one of the most suave sippers out there. The Rum Old Fashioned is a spiffy spinoff of the original, which turns it into a dapper rum and falernum cocktail. Falernum (fah-learn-um) dates back to the 18th century. This spiced, sweet and tart syrup adds an irreplaceable zing and complexity to this drink, taking it into a brand-new cocktail space.
Rum Old Fashioned
PREP TIME 2 min
QUICK TIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
01
1.
Add the white and dark rum, falernum, simple syrup and bitters to a mixing glass with ice
02
2.
Stir to combine and fine-strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice
03
3.
Garnish with an orange peel twist
Why falernum makes all the difference
If you’re wondering what makes the Rum Old Fashioned stand out from the classic version, it’s the falernum. This Caribbean syrup is a blend of lime, almond, ginger, and clove, and it brings a whole world of flavour to the glass. It’s not just sweet—it’s layered. That means your cocktail gets a bold edge without overpowering the rich, molasses-forward notes of a good Jamaican rum. Think depth, spice, and just enough intrigue to keep you coming back for more.
Caribbean Inspiration: 10 Falernum Cocktails To Try
Choosing the best rum for this cocktail
A Rum Old Fashioned is only as good as the rum you use. Aged rums, like Appleton Estate, offer warm notes of vanilla, oak, and dried fruit that play beautifully with falernum. Adding a float of Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum gives it a tropical kick and a bit of fire. Want to switch it up? Try experimenting with a darker rum or a high-ester agricole rum for more funk. Just make sure you’re using something bold—this drink doesn’t hide weak spirits.
Types of Rum: Your Complete Guide to Rum Varieties
Serving ideas that make it feel extra polished
This cocktail is a looker, so serve it with style. Use a rocks glass with a large clear ice cube to keep dilution slow and steady. Want to step it up? Express the orange peel over the drink for a hit of citrus oil before dropping it in. A branded ice cube or vintage-style glass adds that final touch for at-home bartenders who love a bit of flair.
Learn more: 10 Different Types of Cocktail Glasses and Their Uses
More drinks to try if you enjoy a Rum Old Fashioned
If this drink hits the right notes for you, chances are you’ll enjoy these too:
Negroni. Try one with rum instead of gin for a Caribbean twist.
Boulevardier. A rich and complex slow sipper for those who love a bitter finish.
Jungle Bird. A tiki-inspired drink that balances rum with intriguing Campari.
Dark ‘n Stormy. Easy to make, but big on bold rum character.
El Presidente. A Prohibition-era Cuban cocktail with white rum and vermouth.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Technically, yes—but aged or dark rums work best. The cocktail relies on the depth of the spirit, so go for something with character. A mix of aged and overproof rums, like in the recipe, adds complexity.
Falernum can be either alcoholic or non-alcoholic, depending on the brand. For home mixing, non-alcoholic versions are more common and easier to find. Either way, it brings that signature spiced citrus profile.
chocolate or tiki bitters to add a different dimension. Just start small—you want the bitters to enhance, not dominate.
The Rum Old Fashioned swaps bourbon or rye for rum, and introduces falernum for added spice and tropical nuance. It’s warmer, a little sweeter, and brings a completely different vibe.
