3 Ideas for Patriotic Punch
Sunshine, fireworks and cookouts — the 4th of July is coming up and we’re planning fantastic backyard parties! We have the games and food all planned out, the only thing missing are the cool, refreshing drinks. And since it’s the 4th of July, a we think a good sparkling cocktail is in order. Here are 3 ideas for patriotic punch to serve at your 4th of July barbecue.
Red, White and Blue Brew For a simple punch with patriotic flare, vodka is a good base for the alcohol — you just have to give it color, garnish it well and make it sparkle.
- 1-750 ml bottle vodka
- 1/2-750 ml bottle sparkling wine
- 1/2-750 ml bottle sweet white wine (Riesling or ice wine)
- 1-750 ml bottle cranberry juice
- 1/2-liter bottle 7up
- Garnish: blueberries, strawberries or raspberries
In a punch bowl mix together the vodka, sweet white wine and cranberry juice. When your guests arrive, gently stir in the 7up and sparkling wine. Pour over a glass of ice to serve and add berries as garnish.
Sparkling Watermelon Punch Nothing says summer like watermelon, but you don’t have to eat it to enjoy it! A watermelon can do double-duty as punch and punch bowl — which is convenient when you’re serving a crowd that you’ll later clean up after.
- 1 large seedless watermelon
- 1 750-ml bottle of vodka
- 1/2 liter club soda
- ½ sour Mix
- Garnish: lime slices
Slice off the top of the watermelon — choose the side that makes the most sense as the top of a punch bowl. Scoop out the entire contents of the watermelon. In a blender, puree the watermelon until it’s smooth. Pour the puree through a fine sieve (strainer) to separate the juice from the pulp of the melon. Pour the juice back into the watermelon rind. Stir in the vodka and sour mix. When the guests arrive, stir in the club soda. Serve over a glass of ice and garnish with a slice of lime.
Summer Rum Punch Of course, since it’s summer, we have to include a rum punch — there’s just something about the flavor and fragrance of rum that goes so well with sunshine and a backyard party. This one is simple and delicious.
- 1-750ml bottle oz Dark Rum (Myers or similar)
- 2 cups Lemon Juice
- 2 ½ cups Orange Juice
- 2 ½ cups Pineapple Juice
- ¾ cup Grenadine
- ¾ cup Simple Syrup
- ½ 750ml bottle club soda
- Garnish: pineapple slices
In a punch bowl, combine all of the ingredients except the club soda and mix well. When guests arrive, stir in the club soda. Serve over ice and garnish with a pineapple slice.
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