Brighton Punch

Pro tips

• Juice fresh oranges and lemons immediately before mixing; citrus oxidizes quickly and loses brightness.
• Chill your glass with ice before building the cocktail to maintain temperature without over-dilution.
• Add club soda last and gently to preserve carbonation; stir briefly to combine without deflating bubbles.
• Taste for balance between spirits and citrus; adjust club soda quantity based on how tart your juice is.

Substitutions

• Brandy → Cognac (higher quality, more complex flavor, use same measure)
• Benedictine → Green Chartreuse (herbal note shift, use 2/3 oz due to higher proof)
• Club soda → Sparkling wine or dry champagne (richer, less carbonation)

Storage & make-ahead

Store unmixed spirits and fresh citrus juice separately in a cool, dark place; prepare individual servings fresh to order.

Equipment

jigger · bar spoon · citrus juicer

What kind of bourbon works best in a Brighton Punch?

Use a standard 80-proof bourbon; the flavor will balance better than high-proof variants. Avoid heavily aged or wheated bourbons that may overpower the citrus.

Can I make Brighton Punch in advance?

Mix spirits, citrus juice, and Benedictine ahead; add club soda and ice just before serving to keep carbonation fresh.

What glass should I serve this in?

Serve in a rocks glass or highball with ice, or in a punch bowl for multiple servings.

Is fresh citrus juice required?

Yes. Fresh-squeezed orange and lemon juice are essential; bottled juice will flatten the brightness and balance of this cocktail.

What can I substitute for Benedictine?

Chartreuse (green or yellow) works as a substitute, though it will shift the herbal profile; use 2/3 oz to account for higher proof.