Brighton Punch

Pro tips

• Use fresh-squeezed orange and lemon juice only—bottled juice dulls the drink's citrus snap and herbal balance.
• Measure spirits precisely at 3/4 oz each; the 1:1 ratio of bourbon to brandy to Benedictine creates the intended flavor structure.
• Chill the glass with ice before pouring to prevent rapid dilution and keep the drink crisp.
• Stir briefly after pouring to integrate flavors without over-chilling; serve immediately.

Substitutions

• Kentucky Tavern Bourbon → any 80-proof bourbon (Maker's Mark, Buffalo Trace; note: higher proof may overpower citrus)
• Mr. Boston Five Star Brandy → Cognac or VS brandy (note: premium brandy increases cost but adds elegance)
• Benedictine → Yellow Chartreuse (note: herbal profile differs; use 1/2 oz to avoid over-sweetening)

Storage & make-ahead

Prepare ahead by mixing spirits and juices up to 4 hours in advance; refrigerate and pour over fresh ice at service.

Equipment

jigger (1 oz and 1/2 oz measures) · bar spoon · rocks glass

Can I use different bourbon or brandy brands?

Yes. Any standard bourbon or brandy works; the recipe's balance depends on the 3:4 oz ratio, not the specific brand.

Should Brighton Punch be served over ice or stirred down?

Serve over ice in a rocks glass, stirred briefly to chill. Fresh ice prevents over-dilution.

What's the purpose of Benedictine in this cocktail?

Benedictine adds herbal sweetness and depth; it rounds out the sharp citrus and creates complexity that bourbon and brandy alone wouldn't provide.

Can I make Brighton Punch in batches ahead of time?

Mix spirits, orange juice, and lemon juice in advance and refrigerate up to 4 hours. Pour over fresh ice when serving to avoid dilution.

Is fresh-squeezed citrus necessary?

Yes. Fresh juice is essential; bottled juice lacks the brightness and balance this citrus-forward drink needs.