CHAMPAGNE CUP (2-gallon mixture)
This elegant Champagne Cup is a sophisticated large-batch cocktail perfect for celebrations, blending the richness of Cognac and Tokaji wine with the brightness of fresh citrus. A base of macerated oranges, lemons, and pineapple infuses a potent mix of Chartreuse, apricot liqueur, and Curaçao, creating a complex and aromatic foundation before being topped with effervescent Champagne and sparkling mineral water. Served over a large block of ice and garnished with fresh grapefruit, this refreshing punch offers a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and herbal notes.
Ingredients
- 4 whole Oranges (Sliced)
- 4 whole Lemons (Sliced)
- 1/2 whole Pineapple (Sliced)
- 1 cup Chartreuse (Originally '1/2 pint'. Converted to modern measurement (1/2 pint = 1 cup).)
- 1 cup Apricot liqueur (Originally '1/2 pint Abricontine'. Substituted with modern apricot liqueur.)
- 2 cups Orange Curaçao (Originally '1 pint Curacoa'. Converted to modern measurement (1 pint = 2 cups).)
- 2 cups Cognac (Originally '1 pint Cognac Brandy'. Converted to modern measurement.)
- 2 cups Tokaji wine (Originally '1 pint Tokay Wine'. Use a sweet Tokaji Aszú or similar sweet dessert wine.)
- 12 cups Champagne (Originally '3 quarts'. Equivalent to about 4 standard 750ml bottles.)
- 6 cups Sparkling mineral water (Originally '3 pints Apollinaris Water'. Converted to modern measurement.)
- 1 block Ice (One large piece/block of ice to keep the punch cold without melting too quickly.)
- 1 whole Grapefruit (Sliced, for garnish.)
Instructions
- 1In a large punch bowl or a suitable glass or porcelain-lined vessel, combine the sliced oranges, lemons, and pineapple. Pour in the Chartreuse, apricot liqueur, Curaçao, Cognac, and Tokaji wine.
- 2Stir the mixture well to combine. Allow the mixture to stand for three hours to let the flavors meld and the fruit infuse the spirits.
- 3Strain the infused liquid into a clean punch bowl, discarding the macerated fruit solids if desired (or keep them for a rustic look, though the recipe suggests straining). Add the Champagne, sparkling mineral water, and the large block of ice.
- 4Stir gently to chill. Decorate with fresh fruit and float slices of grapefruit on top. Serve immediately in Champagne glasses.