Picon Punch

Picon Punch

Picon Punch is a traditional Basque cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a potent drink that combines Amer Picon, grenadine, and a splash of soda water, topped with a lemon twist and a maraschino cherry. The drink is typically served in a short glass and is known for its strong, bitter flavor.

History

The History of Picon Punch dates back to the 19th century when Basque immigrants brought the recipe to the United States. The drink quickly became a staple in Basque communities, particularly in Nevada and California. Despite its popularity, the original Amer Picon is no longer available in the United States, leading many bartenders to create their own versions of the bitter orange liqueur.

Ingredients

The main ingredient in Picon Punch is Amer Picon, a bitter orange liqueur that is difficult to find outside of France. In the United States, bartenders often substitute Amer Picon with other bitter orange liqueurs such as Torani Amer or Amaro CioCiaro. Other ingredients include grenadine, a sweet red syrup made from pomegranate, and soda water. The drink is typically garnished with a lemon twist and a maraschino cherry.

Preparation

To prepare a Picon Punch, start by pouring a shot of Amer Picon into a short glass. Add a splash of grenadine and fill the rest of the glass with soda water. Stir the ingredients together and garnish with a lemon twist and a maraschino cherry. Some variations of the recipe also include a shot of brandy.

Variations

There are many variations of the Picon Punch, each with its own unique twist. The Nevada-style Picon Punch includes a float of brandy on top, while the California-style Picon Punch uses a different type of bitter orange liqueur. Despite these variations, the core ingredients of Amer Picon, grenadine, and soda water remain the same.

Cultural Significance

Picon Punch has a significant cultural importance in the Basque community. It is often served at Basque festivals and gatherings, and is a staple at Basque restaurants in the United States. The drink is so popular that it was named the official drink of the state of Nevada in 2013.

See Also

• List of cocktails
• Basque cuisine
• History of cocktails

References

• "Picon Punch: A Basque Cocktail with a Kick." Imbibe Magazine.
• "The History and Mystery of Amer Picon." Punch Drink.
• "Picon Punch: The Nevada State Drink." Nevada Magazine.