The word ‘cordial’ derives from the old Latin word ‘cordialis’, a term used to define a medicine or beverage which invigorates the heart and stimulates the circulation. Such a drink would usually take the form of an aromatized and sweetened spirit. Australians associate the word with a concentrated non-alcoholic syrup. However, in American parlance, “cordial” is interchangeable with the word liqueur (a term used to define a combination of distilled spirit and certain flavourings, i.e. Fruit).

Which ever way you wish to call it, non-alcoholic syrups are becoming an integral part of today’s cocktail scene. Fee Brothers have introduced a non-alcoholic “Cordial Syrup” range, boasting over 40 different flavours including the featured Falernum (A sweet syrup known to be used in tropical and Caribbean drinks). This mix includes lime, almond and ginger.

An extensive range of Fee Brothers aromatic bitters can also be found on the Nicks Wine Merchants website.

Cocktail Recipe: Barbados Rum Punch

30ml Fee’s Falernum
1 dash Old Fashioned Bitters
15ml Lime Juice
60ml Gold Rum

Shake with ice and pour into Collins glass. Fill with club soda and garnish with assorted bar fruits.