Post #772530 by AceExplorer on Mon, Jan 30, 2017 7:41 AM

On 2017-01-28 21:26, LeftarmofBuddha wrote:
arcadiandj, I believe most people are using Cruzan, Bacardi, and other spanish style 151 rums more as flaming rum for presentation, not the way us tikiphiles use Demerara 151, like LemonHart or Hamilton, as a flavor and proof boosting rum. The light bodied 151 rums are light on flavor where the Demerara 151's and Plantation OFTD are packed full of flavor that mixes well in cocktails. At least, that is the way I understand it.

I agree with LeftarmofBuddha. Bacardi 151 brought extra alcohol to a drink, but also a certain harshness which is not found in the better 151's. Therefore it was most often used at my bar for flaming garnishes and little else.

I just checked my local Total Wine and found they did not have any Bacardi 151 in stock, and I did not see shelf space for it.

I suggest avoiding any temptation to use pure grain alcohol (like Everclear 190 proof) for flaming. It is more flammable than 151 and could be much more risky and dangerous to use. I have stocked up on, and switched to, lemon extract which has a mix of pleasant lemon oil and alcohol. I use 190 proof pure grain alcohol to extend the refrigerator shelf life of my syrups.

I'm planning ahead and hoarding my B151 for the Zombie Apocalypse when my local liquor stores will likely have very limited operating hours.