Punch is considered to be the earliest cocktail from which all others emanate. The details are a bit fuzzy and it is thought to have been a favorite among pirates and sailors, which is not surprising. However, the wine punch is known more for being a wonderfully complex tasting cocktail while being simple to make. With wine as the primary spirit, it also has a lower alcohol content than many cocktails which is ideal for hot summer days when hydration is key.

Vidal Blanc is a popular white varietal in Missouri and is known for its bright acidity and citrus notes. It is perfect for this wine punch recipe and a must try for your next patio sipper. The recipe is simple and the result is so refreshing. This cocktail is very easy to make in a batch to serve you or a crowd.

Vidal Blanc Punch Recipe

Single Cocktail

Ingredients:

3 oz     Vidal Blanc*

½ oz    Aperol

¾ oz    grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed

¼ oz    simple syrup

Club soda, chilled

Optional: If you want your punch extra citrussy, add ½ ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice.

*We used a dry Vidal Blanc in this recipe, but if you use a sweeter style, consider omitting the simple syrup.

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients except the club soda into a shaker with ice and shake until well-chilled, 10-15 seconds.
2. Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
3. Top with the club soda and stir briefly to combine. Don’t stir too vigorously or you will lose all the carbonation added by the club soda.
4. Garnish with a citrus twist – optional.

Batch Punch, serves 6-8

Ingredients:

750 ml Vidal Blanc (one full bottle)

4 oz     Aperol

3 oz     grapefruit juice, freshly squeezed

2 oz     lemon juice, freshly squeezed

2 oz     simple syrup

Club soda, chilled

Instructions:

If making ahead-

1. Add all ingredients except the club soda into a pitcher.
2. Cover and chill for at least four hours, up to 48.
3. When ready to serve, pour over ice in highball glasses.
4. Top with club soda and stir briefly.
5. Garnish with a citrus twist – optional.

If serving immediately-

1. Add all ingredients except the club soda into a pitcher with ice and stir until well-chilled, 20-30 seconds.
2. Strain into highball glasses filled with fresh ice.
3. Top with club soda and stir briefly.
4. Garnish with a citrus twist – optional.