Punch predates the cocktail itself — a batched, shareable mix built on the old rule of one sour, two sweet, three strong, four weak: spirit, citrus, sugar and a lengthener like water, tea or sparkling wine, finished with spice. Mixed in a bowl over a block of ice, it scales from a single pitcher to a full party. Rum builds like the Planter's Punch sit beside brandy, whisky and sparkling versions.
