Fish House Punch

A fine old concoction from the 18th century. Tasty and dangerous.

2 parts dark Jamaica rum

1 part cognac

1 part lemon juice

1/8 part peach brandy

3/8 part sugar

2 parts water

Dissolve the sugar in some of the water, add the lemon juice, then the other ingredients, stir and pour over a big block of ice. Let stand in a cool place for an hour before serving. If the weather or room is hot, use a bit less water to offset the faster melting of the ice  block.

This is just one of the many fine party drinks we've gotten from David Wondrich's wonderful Esquire Drinks, regrettably - near criminally - out of print.