Corn 'n' Oil

The Corn 'n' Oil is a deceptively simple cocktail that stands as the unofficial national drink of Barbados. It masterfully combines the deep, molasses-rich flavor of blackstrap rum with the sweet and spicy notes of almond, ginger, and clove from falernum liqueur. A small amount of fresh lime juice and a dash of bitters are added to cut through the sweetness, creating a perfectly balanced and surprisingly complex sipping drink. It’s a wonderful example of how a few well-chosen ingredients can create a truly memorable experience.
Corn 'n' Oil

Preparation

Preparation time: 3 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

The Corn 'n' Oil is a classic cocktail originating from Barbados. While not strictly a tiki drink, its use of rum, lime, and spice places it in the tiki-adjacent or Caribbean cocktail category. It is primarily enjoyed as a standalone mixed drink.

Serving

The Corn 'n' Oil is served cold over ice in a short rocks or Old Fashioned glass. It's a spirit-forward but approachable drink with a moderate alcohol content.
Serving size
Approximately 90-120 ml / 3-4 oz (before ice)
Alcohol content
Approximately 25-30% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Old Fashioned Glass
Glass treatment
None

Backstory

The name "Corn 'n' Oil" is thought to derive from Bajan dialect. The "Corn" likely refers to the corn syrup that was sometimes a component of early falernum recipes. The "Oil" is a fitting description for the dark, thick, and viscous appearance of the blackstrap rum as it is poured over the other ingredients. The drink has been a beloved staple on the island for many years, a simple yet profound taste of Barbadian culture.
Origin
Barbados, with its origins likely dating back to the early 20th century. It is a traditional and enduring part of the island's drinking culture.

Corn 'n' Oil

The drink is consistently known as the Corn 'n' Oil, with "Corn and Oil" being a simple spelling variation. The name is believed to be a Bajan colloquialism reflecting its key ingredients' historical context and appearance. "Corn" may refer to corn syrup in early falernum, while "Oil" describes the viscous, dark blackstrap rum.
Original name
Corn 'n' Oil
Alternative name
Corn and Oil

Characteristics overview

This drink presents a rich aroma of molasses and spice, with a flavor profile dominated by the sweet spice of falernum balanced by dark rum and tart lime. The texture is smooth and the long, warming aftertaste makes it a satisfying sip any time of year.
Flavor
Spicy, sweet, molasses, lime, clove, ginger, almond
Aroma
Rich, molasses, spice, citrus
Taste balance
Sweet, sour, spicy
Aftertaste
Long, warming, spicy
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Dark brown, amber, translucent
Texture
Smooth, slightly viscous
Seasonality
Refreshing, suitable year-round

Flavor intensity & Experience

The Corn 'n' Oil is moderately sweet and spicy with a pleasant sour kick from the lime. It has a medium alcohol strength and is completely still, with no carbonation.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

This cocktail requires just four key ingredients: a rich blackstrap rum, the sweet-spicy liqueur Falernum, a small amount of fresh lime juice, and a couple dashes of Angostura bitters.
  • Blackstrap Rum60 ml / 2 oz
    A dark, rich Bajan rum can also be used for a slightly different character.
  • Falernum15 ml / 0.5 oz
    A key ingredient providing spice and sweetness. John D. Taylor's Velvet Falernum is the classic choice.
  • Fresh Lime Juice7.5 ml / 0.25 oz
    Crucial for balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
  • Angostura Aromatic Bitters2 dashes
    Adds aromatic complexity and a touch of spice.

Ice type

  • Crushed or Cubed

Mixing equipments

No special mixing equipment like shakers or mixing glasses are needed. You will only need a jigger to measure the liquids and a juicer for the fresh lime.
  • Jigger for measuring
  • Citrus juicer for lime

Instructions

This is a "built" cocktail, meaning all ingredients are added directly to the serving glass. Simply fill a glass with ice, add the falernum, lime, and bitters, then float the dark rum on top before garnishing.
1. Fill an Old Fashioned or rocks glass with crushed or cubed ice.
2. Add the falernum, fresh lime juice, and Angostura bitters directly into the glass.
3. Slowly pour the blackstrap rum over the top to create a visually appealing float.
4. Serve as is, allowing the drinker to stir, or give it a very brief stir to lightly combine the ingredients.
5. Garnish with a fresh lime wedge or wheel.

Garnishing

A simple garnish of a fresh lime wedge or wheel complements the drink's flavors and adds to its visual appeal. It can be squeezed into the drink for extra tartness if desired.
  • Lime wedge or wheel placed on the rim or in the glass.

Dietary Information

This cocktail is typically vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. However, it is not nut-free as most commercial falernum liqueurs contain almond extract, which is a key allergen concern.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✕ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This drink has a moderate calorie count, primarily from the alcohol and sugar in the rum and falernum. The carbohydrate and sugar content is relatively low for a sweet-leaning cocktail.
Calories
Approximately 180-220 kcal / 753-920 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Approximately 8-12 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Approximately 8-12 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This is an excellent cocktail for a relaxed happy hour or a warm summer evening. Its bold flavors make it a great sipping drink for casual gatherings with friends. It's a perfect choice when you want something flavorful and spirit-forward but not overly complicated.
  • Happy Hour
  • Summer Evening
  • Casual Sipping

Pairing suggestions

The spicy and sweet notes of the Corn 'n' Oil pair exceptionally well with Caribbean cuisine, especially spicy dishes like jerk chicken. It also complements the flavors of grilled seafood and appetizers like coconut shrimp, as its acidity and spice cut through richness.
  • Spicy Caribbean food
  • Grilled fish or chicken
  • Coconut shrimp

The Corn 'n' Oil: A Rich and Spicy Taste of Barbados

The Corn 'n' Oil is the quintessential Barbadian cocktail, a simple yet profound mix of the island's flavors. Its foundation of rich blackstrap rum is perfectly complemented by the complex spice of falernum, with fresh lime and bitters providing essential balance. Easy to build directly in the glass, it's an accessible classic that offers a deep, satisfying, and aromatic sipping experience. It is a true taste of the Caribbean, perfect for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted rum drink.