From the late 17th to 19th century, in an age when “Punch” was a celebration of all things then luxurious—citrus, sugar, and spice—no Punch was without a true Batavia Arrack. Made from sugar cane and fermented red rice, and bottled at elevated proof without aging, Batavia Arrack van Oosten combines smoky fruitiness with a vegetal funk that soaks up tea, lemon, and sugar in the punch bowl. Beyond these uses, Batavia Arrack is also today found in boutique European chocolates and cocktails at Bali resorts and bars across the USA.

Falernum is indigenous to Barbados, where Velvet Falernum is a longtime staple item of its many resorts and bars. The sweetness, spice, and nutty character of this rum-based liqueur provides weight and texture to classic rum and wine punches. Today, Falernum is a staple for tropical drinks such as swizzles, Zombies, and other Tiki drinks. Try the island favorite with 2 parts aged rum, 3 dashes Angostura and a squeeze of lime. Add to wine and orange juice for a quick, delicious Sangria. John D Taylor’s Velvet Falernum is considered by many as the original Falernum, and is today produced by famed rum distiller R.L. Seale Ltd.