The Picon Punch is a unique drink that I want to show you today. This cocktail is more than just a drink; each sip takes you to a fun place. This cocktail is more than just a drink; each sip takes you to a fun place. This drink is one of my favorites as a bartender since it possesses a wide variety of flavors that make it appealing to drinkers of all expertise levels, from novices to seasoned professionals. Let’s learn more about Picon Punch and see why it’s a must-try on your drink journey.
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Tasting Notes
Picon Punch has a unique taste that is both bitter and sweet, making it a great choice for any occasion. The bitter taste comes from Amer Picon, a unique orange-flavored bittersweet liquor. A splash of grenadine makes it sweeter. Adding club soda gives it a cool fizz, and the brandy float on top makes it taste rich and warm. The lemon twist on top gives the drink a bright citrus scent that makes every sip a pleasure.
Equipment and Glassware
A spoon for stirring, a measuring jigger for accurate amounts of ingredients, and a knife or peeler for the lemon twist finish are the only tools you’ll need to make a Picon Punch. A highball glass is the usual way to serve this cocktail because it lets the colors and layers of the drink shine through beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Amer Picon
- 1/2 oz. Grenadine
- Club soda to top
- 1/2 oz. Brandy (for the float)
- Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions
- Fill your glass with ice to chill.
- Pour 2 oz. of Amer Picon over the ice.
- Add 1/2 oz. of grenadine.
- Top the glass with club soda, leaving some room at the top.
- Carefully float 1/2 oz of brandy on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon.
- Stir gently before drinking to blend the flavors together.
Pro Tips
- For the brandy float, slowly pour the brandy over with a spoon. This will help it stay on top and make it look amazing.
- You can change how much grenadine you use to your liking. A little grenadine makes the drink sour, and a lot of grenadine makes it sweet.
- Make sure you always use fresh ice so your drink stays cool and is not watered down.
When to Serve
Picon Punch is flexible and great for many situations. It’s a great choice for a summer party because it makes the mood more fun. Brandy is a nice drink to drink in the winter because it has warm notes. It’s also a great choice for a themed cocktail night, especially if you want to try out traditional or local drinks.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best Picon Punch experience, choosing the right brands is crucial. While Amer Picon is a specific type of liqueur, if it’s hard to find, look for alternatives like Torani Amer or Amaro CioCiaro. For the brandy, a VS or VSOP grade from brands like Hennessy, Courvoisier, or even a local brandy that you enjoy will do nicely.
Similar Cocktails
- Negroni – A classic, with a perfect balance of gin, vermouth, and Campari.
- Boulevardier – A whiskey-based cousin to the Negroni, with a deep, complex flavor.
- French 75 – A sparkling mix of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne.
- Sazerac – A New Orleans classic, combining rye whiskey, sugar, and bitters.
- Old Fashioned – Timeless, with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and an orange twist.
History
There are Basque roots to the Picon Punch, and Basque settlers brought it to the United States. It became very famous in Nevada, and some people even call it the state’s official drink. This drink is more than just a drink; it’s a celebration of family history and the fun of getting together with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Amer Picon
- 1/2 oz. Grenadine
- Club soda to top
- 1/2 oz. Brandy for the float
- Lemon twist for garnish
Instructions
- Fill your glass with ice to chill.
- Pour 2 oz. of Amer Picon over the ice.
- Add 1/2 oz. of grenadine.
- Top the glass with club soda, leaving some room at the top.
- Carefully float 1/2 oz of brandy on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon.
- Stir gently before drinking to blend the flavors together.
Notes
Yes, if Amer Picon is unavailable, replace it with Torani Amer or a similar bitter orange liqueur. Is Picon Punch very sweet?
The sweetness can be adjusted with the amount of grenadine. Generally, it has a balanced sweetness with a bitter undertone. Can I use any other garnish instead of lemon twist?
A lemon twist is the classic, but an orange twist can also go well with the tastes.