Punch originated in India but quickly gained popularity amongst European sailors who took advantage of the abundance of Caribbean sugar cane. Sugar was perfect ingredient for their new drink of choice. Hindi for “five,” a true punch is composed of five main components: sugar, water, citrus, spice, and alcohol. When punch arrived in the new world, many drinkers relished the taste, texture and simplicity of the drink, and enjoyed sharing it in large quantities. “It’s the original mixed drink,” says David Wondrich, punch historian and connoisseur. “It caught on early in American history and quickly became a sensation.”
Punch has had its ups and downs over the years, but really, there is no better mixed drink for a party. These days many craft cocktail bars are starting to add punched to their menus. Grab a few friends and try a bowl.
Check out these tasty punch recipes you can try at home, these were created by bartender Phil Ward for Flor de Caña Rum:
And even more punch recipes.
