Planter's Punch

"One of Sour, Two of Sweet, Three of Strong, Four of Weak". The Planter's Punch is a timeless and refreshing cocktail whose history goes back to the early days of Caribbean rum and which is still very popular today thanks to its easy-to-remember recipe.

The traditional recipe for Planter's Punch follows the simple formula already mentioned: one part citrus fruit ("sour"), two parts sugar or syrup ("sweet"), three parts rum ("strong") and four parts lemonade ("weak"), usually fruit juices or soda.

Where does Planter's Punch come from?

Its exact origins are disputed - there are several legends about how it came about. Barbados, for example, claims to be the inventor of Planter's Punch. It is said that this drink was first mixed at Planter's Hotel in the early 1900s, where it immediately became a hit among travelers and locals.

The hotel's version reportedly used a combination of Bajan rum, citrus and spices. But other Caribbean islands also have their own interpretations, often using local fruits and spices, giving Planter's Punch a twist all of its own.

Incidentally, the term "Planter's Punch" for this cocktail first appeared in an article in the New York Times in 1908. Some believe that it is a reference to the famous poem "The Song of the Banjo" by Rudyard Kipling, the author of The Jungle Book, which mentions a drink called "Planter's Punch". This poem was published in 1890 and may have been the inspiration for the name of the cocktail.

Planter's Punch recipe

Ingredients (for 2 servings):

• 18 cl rum (light or dark)
• 6 cl freshly squeezed lime juice
• 12 cl sugar syrup
• 12 cl orange juice
• 12 cl pineapple juice
• Angostura bitters (optional)
• Grenadine or raspberry syrup (optional)
• 2 pineapple slices
• 2 cocktail cherries

Preparation:

1. Prepare each cocktail separately.
2. Place the ice cubes in a shaker and pour in half the lime juice, half the sugar syrup and half the rum. Add half of the fruit juices. If desired, add 1-2 drops of bitters for a little more depth of flavor and/or 1-2 drops of grenadine or raspberry syrup for more sweetness & color.
3. Shake vigorously. Pour fresh ice cubes into a long drink or cocktail glass.
4. Strain the drink & garnish with pineapple and cocktail cherry.
5. Repeat all steps for the second drink.

Traditionally, Planters Punch is served in a tall glass filled with ice. Some variations include grated nutmeg for added flavor. Enjoy your Planters Punch responsibly!

Which rum for Planter's Punch?

The choice of rum for Planter's Punch can vary depending on personal preference and regional traditions. Both light and dark rum can be used, and the decision often depends on the flavor profile you want:

• Light Rum: A common choice for a crisp and refreshing Planter's Punch. It has a milder, slightly sweet flavor and allows the other ingredients, especially the fruit juices, to stand out. Light-colored Puerto Rican and Cuban rums are popular options.
• Dark rum: Dark rum, on the other hand, gives the cocktail a rich, strong and slightly spicy flavor. It provides a deeper complexity and is often preferred for a more traditional or 'vintage' version of Planters Punch. Dark rum from Jamaica or Barbados is often chosen for this style.