Velli Syrups
Small-batch “No BS” syrups for coffee, cocktails, mocktails, and main-character desserts
Origin Story & Identity
The story of Velli started with a simple question, ‘Who makes the best espresso martini in Dallas?’ I went everywhere looking for the answer, but I always felt something was missing. I decided to stop searching and start cooking. I began crafting unique, small-batch simple syrups to elevate the classic recipe. I can now say I make the best espresso martini in the city. Velli exists to bring that same top tier cocktail experience to everyone.
I have insurance, Texas Food Handlers Card, Food Safety Manager Training completed.
Fun Fact:
Velli’s 'quirk' is rooted in my own curiosity. I’ve always said I’ll try anything once, and I apply that same rule to the kitchen with these syrups. This has helped me craft some truly unique flavors that you wouldn't expect. It’s how we move past the basic profiles and find the combinations that turn a coffee or a cocktail into a complete experience. One of the fun flavors coming down the pipeline is a Brown Butter Cinnamon.
What flavors or products do you make?
Right now the current lineup consist of:
Simple syrup, Vanilla Bean, Brown Sugar Cinnamon, Lavender, Bananas Foster.
What are you most proud of creating?
I’m definitely most proud of my Bananas Foster flavor. It was one of my first experimental recipes, and it really pushed me to step outside my comfort zone. The fact that people were so receptive to it proved that people are ready for fun, and bold flavor combinations.
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Philosophy & Practices
My approach is centered on the 'No BS' philosophy found on every bottle. That doesn't just mean avoiding artificial ingredients and extracts. I'm committed to creating bold profiles using high quality ingredients. My goal is total transparency, when a customer picks up a bottle of Velli, they know they are getting a premium product with a clear, honest flavor. For me it’s about taking the 'No BS' quality and pairing it with a sense of adventure. I want people to have fun with these syrups. As Velli grows, I’m focused on creating unique flavors that people haven't seen before, things that make them excited to get behind the bar or into the kitchen to create their own unique experiences.
What’s something about your process, ingredients, recipes, or standards that most people don’t know — but should?
We don’t take shortcuts. For example, our Vanilla Bean syrup features real beans and our own homemade vanilla extract. For our Lavender flavor we source the finest lavender to ensure the taste is bold and true floral profile that tastes like the actual plant, not a perfume. Every ingredient is chosen because it’s the real thing no fillers, no cheap substitutes, and no compromises on the process.
What’s the biggest challenge of creating syrups the way you do?
Patience is definitely my biggest challenge. Because we refuse to use artificial ingredients, creating our bold flavors requires a lot of trial and error. Finding the right technique to pull those real flavors out of raw ingredients takes time and constant refinement. The “No BS” way isn't the fastest way, but the results speak for themselves.
Daily Life & Personal Connection to the Work
What’s your favorite part of the work you do every day?
My favorite part of this work is definitely seeing people’s reactions when they first taste the syrups. I love watching their eyes light up and seeing the wheels start turning as they brainstorm all the different ways they can use it at home. Beyond that, the repeat customers are truly special to me, knowing that Velli is something they incorporate into their everyday lives.
What’s your favorite way to use one of your syrups?
I love adding any of our syrups to my afternoon coffee for that final boost to get through the day. However, my absolute favorite discovery lately is drizzling them over a scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream. I’m telling you, the Bananas Foster syrup on vanilla ice cream is out of this world. It turns a simple dessert into something truly gourmet.
Velli’s Signature Espresso Martini
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Fresh Espresso
- 1 oz Coffee Liqueur (I prefer Mr. Black)
- 1 oz Vodka
- ½ oz Velli Simple Syrup
- Garnish: 1 Lemon Peel
Instructions:
- Combine: Add the espresso, coffee liqueur, vodka, and Velli Simple Syrup into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- Shake: Shake vigorously for at least 10 seconds to ensure a thick, frothy foam.
- Strain: Double strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Garnish: Twist the lemon peel over the glass to release the aromatic oils, then drop the peel in or perch it on the rim as a garnish.
What are you excited to create, offer, or dream up for the future of Velli Simple Syrups?
I’m excited to keep experimenting with bold, unconventional flavors that you can't find anywhere else. I want to continue offering people more than just a sweetener. I want to offer an experience. I’m looking forward to expanding our lineup with even more fun combinations that inspire people to get creative with their drinks, from the first cup of coffee in the morning to the last cocktail of the night.
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