The Punch Family
see all families cocktail punch
Punch has become a sophisticated category, with mixologists experimenting with rare spirits, artisanal syrups, and homemade ingredients, bringing a craft cocktail ethos to this communal drink. Its resurgence celebrates both the history of cocktails and the joy of sharing.
In essence, the punch family of cocktails encapsulates a tradition of communal drinking, where creativity, history, and hospitality blend seamlessly into one refreshing, social experience.
History of the Punch Cocktail Family
The punch cocktail family can trace its roots back to the 17th century, originating in India as 'paantsch', a word from Hindi meaning 'five', which referred to the five original ingredients: spirit, sugar, lemon, water, and tea or spices. British sailors and traders brought this concoction back to England, where it evolved into a communal drink served at social gatherings.
During Prohibition, punches provided a way to serve alcohol discreetly, often with fruit juices or sodas to mask the taste of inferior spirits.
How to make a Punch Cocktail
Generally, a punch includes a base spirit, a sweetener, citrus or tart component, water or a non-alcoholic mixer, and often a spice or aromatic element. Modern punches might also include fruit or vegetable juices, tea, or wine.
