Brunch Punch

We were just in Palm Springs and went to a restaurant where I totally doubted the cocktails. Then we started talking to the bartender (always talk to the bartender!) and realized he was legit. It was not entirely the vibe of the place so I was so excited to have him tell us that he made everything from scratch and none of the cocktails were out of a jug.

There were drinks on the menu that I thought sounded great, but I can’t do almonds so I asked for a recommendation. Life lesson: If the bartender is legit, then ask what they recommend! Give them one or two drinks that sound good to you and they will usually make you something amazing. This bartender recommended what he called a ‘brunch punch.’

The Brunch Punch was so good! And it was rum based - unexpected. And pink - unexpected. But it was not overly fruity - expected because this was a good bartender. So we grilled him on how he made it. Three rums, one spiced (!), two juices and grenadine. Of the three rums, one of them was a spiced rum. I usually hate spiced rum. It’s gross. But in this, surprisingly good. I found a place for spiced rum to thrive. The other rums were basic so I swapped them out for a good rum that I adore - the Blackwell dark rum is so perfect. And it’s bold so it stands up to the juice.

This feels a lot like Mr. Hedin’s Boat Drinks, but with a more brunch feel that’s more appropriate for 10am. And aren’t we all looking for something that seems more reasonable for brunch that isn’t just champagne?

*Also, just realized I’ve never posted Mr. Hedin’s Boat Drinks so get excited. That’s now coming soon!

Brunch Punch

makes four drinks (a small pitcher full)

6 ounces orange juice

6 ounces pineapple juice

3 ounces spiced rum

3 ounces Blackwell rum

1 ounce dark rum

2 tablespoons grenadine

maraschino cherries

In a pitcher, combine all ingredients - except the cherries - and stir to combine. When you’re ready to serve the drinks, pour 1/2 cup of the drink into a cocktail shaker and shake well. Pour the drink and the ice into a cocktail glass and garnish with a cherry. These are strong drinks so be careful!

Alternatively, you can make each drink on its own - when you do, float the dark rum on top instead of mixing it into the drink. It’s delicious!