Plaza Punch

Pro tips

• Use freshly squeezed lime juice; bottled will flatten the acidity and balance of the drink.
• Chill your coupe or cocktail glass before serving to keep the drink cold longer without over-dilution.
• Grate nutmeg directly over the finished drink just before serving to maximize aroma and flavor impact.
• Shake vigorously with ice for 10–12 seconds to properly chill and aerate; this drink benefits from the slight dilution.

Substitutions

• Pineapple juice → fresh pineapple nectar (thicker mouthfeel, less sharp acidity)
• Agave nectar → simple syrup or honey syrup (adjust to taste, honey adds rounded sweetness)
• Peychaud's bitters → Angostura bitters (earthier note, slightly less anise character)

Storage & make-ahead

Batched cocktail components (spirits, juices, agave, bitters) keep refrigerated up to 2 days; shake fresh with ice and garnish with nutmeg immediately before serving.

Equipment

cocktail shaker · jigger · microplane (for nutmeg garnish)

Can I substitute pisco with a different spirit?

Pisco's neutral, fruity profile is central to this drink. Rum or brandy will shift the flavor profile significantly; if substituting, use a lighter aged spirit rather than dark.

What type of orange liqueur works best?

Cointreau or dry curaçao are ideal. Avoid overly sweet versions; the liqueur should complement citrus without dominating.

Should I use fresh or bottled pineapple juice?

Fresh pineapple juice yields a brighter, cleaner flavor. Bottled is acceptable but may taste flatter; avoid sweetened varieties.

How do I properly grate nutmeg as a garnish?

Use a fine microplane and grate directly over the drink's surface just before serving. Fresh whole nutmeg tastes vastly better than pre-ground.

Can this drink be batched or made ahead?

Mix the spirits, amaro, juices, and agave in advance, but add ice and nutmeg garnish only when serving to maintain aromatics and dilution balance.