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Ti Punch

Ti Punch is Martinique's national drink, a deceptively simple yet deeply complex cocktail that captures the soul of the French Caribbean in just three ingredients. This spirit-forward sipper with real depth rewards patience and quality ingredients.
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Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: French Caribbean, Martinique
Calories: 165
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 ounces rhum agricole Martinique preferred
  • 1 lime preferably green and firm
  • 1/2 teaspoon cane syrup or 1 teaspoon simple syrup diluted with 1/2 teaspoon water

Equipment

  • 8-ounce old fashioned or rocks glass
  • Bar knife or small sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Jigger or measuring spoon
  • Bar spoon or regular spoon for stirring

Method
 

  1. Pour room-temperature water into your rocks glass and swirl it around for five seconds, then dump it out to chill the glass.
  2. Slice your lime lengthwise into two halves, then cut each half into two quarters so you have four wedges, keeping the peel on.
  3. Drop one lime wedge into your prepared glass.
  4. Measure out 1/2 teaspoon cane syrup and pour it directly onto the lime wedge in the glass.
  5. Using the back of a bar spoon or regular spoon handle, gently press the lime wedge against the glass bottom three or four times to release juices and oils.
  6. Fill your glass about three-quarters full with ice, preferably larger cubes that melt slowly.
  7. Measure exactly 2 ounces of rhum agricole and pour it directly over the ice in your glass.
  8. Using a bar spoon, stir the drink gently for about ten seconds to integrate the syrup and distribute the lime oils throughout.
  9. Serve immediately while properly chilled.

Notes

Start with one lime wedge, but keep extra wedges ready to add as you sip if you want more tartness. Never use a blender or vigorous shaking for Ti Punch. The drink's soul lives in its simplicity and the slow integration of flavors as you sip. Rhum agricole is essential for authentic flavor; it's made from fresh sugarcane juice rather than molasses.