The Important Rule To Remember When Making Batch Cocktails With Citrus

There's an undeniable perfectionism to crafting one cocktail at a time, but it's not always logistically feasible. Whether you're hosting a party or simply don't want to play the role of bartender all night, batch cocktails come with a range of benefits. Not only does an artfully-prepared punch stand out visually, but it can also be just as flavorful as an individually-mixed drink.

There are some logistics to consider with batching, namely dilution, chilling, and the sturdiness of ingredients. Alcohol is a shelf-stable substance, but other ingredients are not. So don't even think about batching a sling with egg whites or milk.

Citrus stands in a peculiar middle ground. It has a bit of stability, but it won't hold its flavor for an extended period of time. Lemon and lime juice will spoil especially quickly, so it's best to craft the batch the same day if you're using those ingredients. However, with an ingredient like grapefruit or orange juice, you'll get a couple of days of fridge time, so it's totally okay to prep a night or two in advance. Let's dive into drink-by-drink breakdowns.

In cocktails where the citrus is not a predominant flavor, consider batching the rest of the elements prior and then mixing in the acidic element. Take the White Linen cocktail, for example — with other flavorings like elderflower liquor and cucumber, the drink will really pop if the lime is added right before serving.

Plus, consider that batched citrus will change in taste more than other components. Adding it last minute to a pre-mixed Bee's Knees, Margarita, or Mojito will aid in getting that acidic balance just right. In cocktails with less tart citrus, like a Tequila Sunrise, flavors will take longer to become imbalanced, so they can rest for a couple of days.

Nevertheless, flavors will still alter. So for the best batched cocktails with citrus, turn to recipes with a greater array of ingredients. A rum punch does integrate a substantial amount of oranges and lime, but alongside a flavorful spread of other components, too. Consequently, the resultant cocktail will be less likely to taste unbalanced, so it'll be easier to get right with last-minute additions. Plus, it's hard to beat a punch for a party vibe. Who doesn't want a boozy bowl packed to the brim with flavors?