Sumptuous Sips: Planter's Punch

Sometimes you want something rum-ish: rum-based, tropical, kind of dreamy…Planter's Punch can fit that bill.

Recently I have had the opportunity to sample Alvin's punch--(that would be Alvin of Alvin and friends--whom I wrote about last month!) and wow, that is magical stuff...and honestly, it would be my first choice. However, sometimes I can't get out, and since Alvin's recipe is top top secret, I have to recreate my own! Honestly, everyone has their own interpretation. This is a variation on one I published in Calypso Coolers. Of course you can vary it according to your taste and liking, but this one can satisfy your need-for-the-tropics craving... ¡Salud! Happy weekend! (And ooh--for more sumptuous sips, great fiesta recipes, and a fun night out of cooking, cavorting and more, join me on April 26th at Don Coqui's where you'll be making a lovely array of springtime, Latin-infused tapas!) 

Serves 2

From Calypso Coolers, Arlen Gargagliano © 2006,
Stewart, Tabori & Chang
Photograph by Ellie Miller  

Serves 2 

Ice cubes

4 ounces dark rum (I’m a big Meyers fan…but Mount Gay is nice with this one!)

5 ounces unsweetened pineapple juice

1 ounce fresh lime juice

2 dashes grenadine

superfine sugar, to taste

club soda
Cherries (for garnish)

In a shaker filled with ice, combine the rum, the juice, and the grenadine. Shake briskly. Pour without straining into two glasses. Top with club soda, garnish with the cherries and serve.