Pisco Punch

The Pisco Punch is a vibrant, citrus-forward classic with tropical flair and San Francisco roots. This cocktail brings together floral, aromatic pisco with bright lemon juice and rich pineapple gum syrup for a refreshing, well-balanced drink. Served in a chilled coupe, this drink feels equally at home at a breezy summer gathering or as a charming dinner party opener.

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Tasting Notes

Pisco Punch delivers a lively mix of citrus and tropical fruit with a subtle herbal edge. The pisco brings soft floral notes and a hint of spice, while the pineapple gum syrup adds depth and a touch of rounded sweetness. Lemon juice cuts through with bright acidity, balancing the drink with a crisp finish. A few dashes of Angostura bitters introduce a warming undertone that lingers softly. Served in a coupe glass and garnished with pineapple fronds and a cherry, this cocktail feels both refreshing and grounded ideal for those who enjoy layered yet approachable flavor combinations.

Equipment and Glassware

To make a Pisco Punch, you’ll need a cocktail shaker, a Hawthorne strainer, and a fine mesh strainer to ensure a smooth pour. A jigger will help with accurate measurements, especially for balancing the tartness of the citrus with the sweetness of the syrup. A coupe glass is the best choice for serving its bowl shape holds the drink’s aroma while adding visual appeal. For garnishing, cocktail picks come in handy for securing the maraschino cherry. Chill your glass beforehand for optimal temperature and presentation. These simple tools help create a well-balanced and polished final result.

Ingredients

• 2 oz pisco
• 0.75 oz lemon juice
• 0.75 oz pineapple gum syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Garnish: pineapple fronds and maraschino cherry

Instructions

• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
• Add pisco, lemon juice, pineapple gum syrup, and Angostura bitters.
• Shake vigorously until well chilled, about 15–20 seconds.
• Fine strain into a chilled coupe glass.
• Garnish with pineapple fronds and a maraschino cherry.

Pro Tips

• Use a high-quality pisco for best results both aromatic and acholado styles work well.
• Fresh lemon juice makes a noticeable difference in brightness and balance.
• Pineapple gum syrup adds texture don’t substitute with basic syrup unless necessary.
• Fine strain to remove pulp and create a cleaner finish.
• Chill your coupe glass in the freezer before pouring to maintain temperature.
• Adjust bitters slightly based on your preference for spice and complexity.
• Garnish right before serving to keep the presentation fresh and lively.

When to Serve

Pisco Punch fits beautifully into spring and summer gatherings thanks to its fruit-forward profile and balanced acidity. It’s a smart choice for afternoon brunches, rooftop get-togethers, or pre-dinner drinks. The cocktail also works well as a signature drink for celebrations or themed parties with a tropical or South American flair. Because it’s bright but not too strong, it can be enjoyed early in the evening or as a refresher between meals. Its approachable flavor makes it popular with both seasoned cocktail fans and those newer to pisco.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Pisco:
  • Barsol
  • Macchu Pisco
  • Capurro
  • Caravedo
  • Encanto

Similar Cocktails

• Passion Fruit Pisco Sour
• Cilantro Pisco Smash
• Vanilla Mandarin Sour
• Mango and Papaya Swizzle
• Barbacoa