While all eyes are on the track for the fastest two minutes in sport, Kentucky Derby cocktails are sipped throughout all the day’s races. Although the Mint Julep might be the traditional cocktail and the Woodford Spire is bright and refreshing, these libations are not the only ones. These Kentucky Derby cocktails will have everyone cheering no matter which horse wins, places, or shows.
Crafting a bourbon cocktail requires a deft hand. America’s spirit has character. The charred oak barrels impart all that flavor. From hints of sweetness to a touch of smoke, the transformation over the years aging in the rick house can be dramatic.
With many bourbon cocktails, the spirit, itself, should not be overshadowed. The other ingredients are the supporting cast to highlight the distiller’s craft. The delicate dance swirls and shakes until the first sip excites the palate in the most delicious way.
Race to the finish line with these Kentucky Derby cocktails.
Basil Hayden 75
While bourbon is often paired with rich, sometimes woody, flavors, this riff on a French 75 highlights its floral side. The combination of the Basil Hayden with the bright, refreshing lemon juice with a hint of sweetness is lovely. As the bubbles from the prosecco release their effervescence, it invites a celebratory moment and a touch of jubilation.
Ingredients
1.5 parts Basil Hayden
3/4 parts fresh lemon juice
3/4 parts simple syrup
Prosecco
Method
Shake all ingredients and strain over a large cube, top with prosecco or sparkling wine
Kentucky Buck
Adding a touch of spice can keep the long day moving forward. The ginger beer in this cocktail is balanced by the juicy strawberries. For anyone who loves a strawberry lemonade, this beverage is a must try. Plus, it is an easy drink to pair with a variety of food items. From a hearty barbecue to a simple dessert, it has versatility.
Ingredients
2 fl oz Four Roses Bourbon
¾ fl oz Lemon juice
1–2 Strawberries, sliced and destemmed
1 Dash Angostura bitters
Ginger beer
Garnish – Lemon wheel
Method:
Muddle strawberry in a shaking tin. Add bourbon, lemon juice, and bitters. Add ice to tin and shake for fifteen seconds, or until the cocktail is well chilled. Add ginger beer to the mixing tin. Double strain over fresh ice into a glass. Garnish.
Knob Creek Horse’s Neck with a Kick
For drinkers who appreciate a simple pour, this Knob Creek offering is a great choice. The kick comes from the ginger beer. Personally, the Q Mixers Hibiscus Ginger beer would be a great swap. That touch of floral with the lemon would be delightful.
Ingredients:
1 1/2 parts Knob Creek Bourbon
4 parts Spicy Ginger beer
Dash of Fee Brother's Aromatic Bitters
Peel of a whole lemon
Method:
Combine Knob Creek Bourbon and Bitters in a highball glass with the lemon peel.
Top with Spicy Ginger beer and jiggle
Although not a traditional bourbon, the peanut butter flavored whiskey is delightful in a cocktail.
Skrewballed Raspberry Iced Tea
Although not a traditional bourbon, the peanut butter flavored whiskey is delightful in a cocktail. This cocktail is a take on a Southern favorite, sweet tea. Just be a little more cautious sipping this beverage. One too many will cause a whole different type of rocking on the porch.
Ingredients:
1.5 oz Skrewball Original Peanut Butter Whiskey
.5 oz Hiram Walker Fruja Raspberry Liqueur
3 oz raspberry iced tea
Method:
Serve over ice in a tall glass for a fruity, nutty refresher.
Ready to shake up some Kentucky Derby cocktails? Grab that fascinator, a plate of delicious food, and toast to the fastest two minutes in sports.