Planter’s Punch

Planter's Punch

Planter’s Punch is a classic tropical cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. It is believed to have originated in the late 1800s at a sugarcane plantation in Jamaica, and it quickly became popular among the plantation workers and visitors. The original recipe for Planter’s Punch has been lost to time, but there are many variations of the drink that have been passed down through the years.

One of the most well-known versions of Planter’s Punch includes rum, lime juice, grenadine, and a variety of tropical fruit juices such as pineapple or orange juice. The rum, lime juice, and grenadine provide a base of sweetness, acidity, and complexity, while the tropical fruit juices add a refreshing and fruity flavor. Planter’s Punch can be served either over ice in a tall glass or blended with ice and served in a hurricane glass.

The origins of Planter’s Punch are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have originated in Jamaica. Some historians believe that it was first created at a sugarcane plantation in the 19th century, while others think it may have originated in a hotel or bar in Kingston. Regardless of its origins, it quickly became popular among the plantation workers and visitors, and it was soon being served at bars and hotels throughout the Caribbean.

The first written reference to Planter’s Punch appeared in the 1908 edition of “The Flowing Bowl,” a book of cocktail recipes by William “the Only” Schmidt. Schmidt’s recipe called for Jamaican rum, lime juice, grenadine, and a splash of soda water, which is similar to the traditional recipe for the drink. However, over the years, many variations of Planter’s Punch have been created, with some recipes calling for the addition of tropical fruit juices, such as pineapple or orange juice, and others calling for the use of different types of rum or other spirits.

One of the most notable variations of Planter’s Punch is the “Rum Punch” recipe that appears in “The Gentleman’s Companion” by Charles H. Baker Jr. written in 1939. Baker’s recipe calls for the use of dark rum, lime juice, grenadine, and a variety of tropical fruit juices such as pineapple, papaya, and guava juice. He also suggests adding a touch of absinthe or Pernod, which adds an additional layer of complexity to the drink.

Directions

1. Fill a shaker with ice
2. Add 45ml/1.5oz of Jamaican Rum
3. Add 15ml/.5oz of Lime Juice
4. Add 30ml/1oz of Sugar Cane Juice
5. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice.
6. Top with Clun Soda, Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Another popular variation of the Planter’s Punch is the frozen version, which is made by blending the ingredients with ice and served in a hurricane glass. To make a frozen Planter’s Punch, add all of the ingredients to a blender with a cup of ice. Blend until smooth and pour into a hurricane glass. Garnish with a slice of pineapple or a cherry and enjoy.

Planter Punch is a classic tropical cocktail that has stood the test of time. Its combination of Jamaican Rum, Lime Juice and Sugar Cane Syrup syrup creates a unique and refreshing taste that is sure to transport drinkers to a tropical paradise.