Perfect Party Punch

In an era in which the passed signature cocktail has become the norm, it can be difficult to come up with a serve-yourself beverage that also makes a statement. To the rescue: A classic punch bowl. Appropriate for both elegant afternoon parties and swanky evening soirees, punch is the perfect festive alternative to made-to-order individual drinks.

1. What you actually serve is less important than the vessel itself. The most important ingredient is a fabulous bowl. You can’t go wrong with crystal or silver, preferably with a matching ladle.
2. Keep your punch chilled – and chic – throughout your party. An ice ring with edible flowers frozen into it is a pretty solution.
3. While we believe presentation is key, you don’t want to send your guests home with a headache. We favor a punch recipe from Southern Living that uses fresh lemon juice, sugar, brandy, champagne, Sauternes, and fresh fruit as a garnish. And remember, punch can, well, pack a punch!

Expert tip from Caribou Club in Aspen, CO