Just to through my 2 cents in.....
"Cointreau or Triple Sec - Is the difference worth worrying about? "
The difference is quite stark. Triple Sec is low proof, high in residual sugar, and less intense in orange flavour than Cointreau. A great quality Cointreau knock-off is made by Luxardo, Triplum. It's 1/3rd less expensive than Cointreau, and every bit as good. Here's a link: http://www.luxardo.it/product.aspx?ID=787
"Falernum - Where do you find it?"
I can't find anything but Fee's here in the Midwest. It works in most recipes, though i would like to try something better. I buy mine at The Cork 'n Bottle, in Covington, Kentucky just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati. http://corknbottle.com Great selection of esoteric rum, rye, bourbon and liqueurs as well.
"GOOD Grenadine - Does Anyone Still Make It!?!"
Stirrings is the ONLY real Grenadine on the market, at least to my knowledge. It's made with real pomegranate; the others are just sugar syrup with red dye #41.
"Lemongrass Cordial - Availabity?"
You've got me on this one.
"Maraschino Liqueur - Brand Names?"
Luxardo Maraschino has been the gold standard for well over 100 years. http://www.luxardo.it/product.aspx?ID=778
"Orgeat Syrup - Available Brands?"
I use Torani, and it's great, IMHO. Better than the Monin, more almond flavour and better viscosity.
"Passionfruit Juice - Brand Names?"
Looza are arguably the finest quality, IMHO. And they are widely available at gourmet food stores here in the Midwest.
"Passionfruit Syrup - Can you get it anywhere other than from Trader Vic's?" I use Fee's, and it is just OK. Nothing special at all.
"Pernod - Is it still the best Absynth Substitute available?"
Pastis Prado Pastis, from Marseillaise, France is probably the most artisanal Pastis made in France today. No, it's not Absinthe. However most of the great Tiki (and Pre-Prohibition Classic Cocktails as well) probably were not made with real Absinthe, as it was illegal in The States since the 19th Century.
