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This Earl Grey Bourbon Punch blends warm herbal notes with rich whiskey and a touch of citrus. It's a sophisticated centerpiece for gatherings and one that's bound to impress your guests.
The first time I made this, it was a chilly fall evening, and the combination of warming bourbon and fragrant tea made it an instant favorite.
Ingredients
- Bourbon: Adds a robust warmth that pairs perfectly with the tea
- Lemon juice: Provides a fresh tangy balance to the sweetness
- Honey: Sweetens the punch naturally while enhancing the herbal notes
- Cognac: Rounds out the flavors with its smooth richness
- Earl Grey tea: Delivers floral citrusy undertones ideal for layering depth
- Bitters: Enhances the bouquet of flavors with a slightly spiced touch
- Thyme and rosemary sprigs: Infuse the honey syrup with fragrant earthiness; always choose fresh for the best flavor
- Lemon wheel and rosemary garnish: Adds visual appeal and a fragrant finishing touch
How to Make Earl Grey Bourbon Punch
- Steep the Tea:
- Combine the Earl Grey tea or tea bags with boiling water in a heatproof bowl. Let steep for 5 minutes then strain through a fine mesh sieve into a measuring glass. Allow the tea to cool thoroughly before using.
- Make the Honey Herb Syrup:
- In a small saucepan bring honey thyme rosemary sprigs and water to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir to combine ensuring the honey dissolves completely. Allow the infused mixture to cool then remove the herbs for a smooth syrup.
- Combine the Punch:
- In a large pitcher or punch bowl mix the cooled Earl Grey tea honey syrup lemon juice bourbon Cognac and bitters. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.
- Chill and Serve:
- Add 2 cups of ice to the mixture and stir until the ice melts chilling the punch evenly. Pour into tumblers filled with additional ice. Garnish each glass with a sprig of rosemary and a lemon wheel for a festive presentation.
Every time I prepare this, the honey herb syrup creates such a memorable fragrance in the kitchen. It reminds me of cozy evenings spent with friends.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the tea and honey herb syrup in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Combine everything just before serving for maximum freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have Cognac you can substitute with another brandy. Agave syrup works as an alternative sweetener to honey for a slightly lighter punch.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for holiday dinners or as the centerpiece of a cocktail party. Pair it with desserts like lemon bars or light tea cakes to match its citrusy Earl Grey notes.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use loose-leaf Earl Grey tea instead of tea bags?
Yes, loose-leaf Earl Grey works wonderfully. Just steep it for 5 minutes before straining to ensure a balanced flavor.
- → What substitute can be used for Cognac?
You can substitute Cognac with brandy or omit it for a slightly lighter flavor profile.
- → Can the honey syrup be made in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the honey syrup up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator to save time.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness of the punch?
Reduce the amount of honey in the syrup or add more lemon juice to balance the sweetness according to your taste.
- → What can I use as a non-alcoholic version?
Swap bourbon and Cognac with chilled brewed tea or sparkling water to create a delicious mocktail version.