As the sun begins to rise over the twin spires of Churchill Downs, there’s a sense of anticipation in the air that could only mean one thing. The 150th running of the Kentucky Derby was upon us. The iconic track that is nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s rolling hills is about to be bustling with activity. Spectators adorned in their finest attire will fill the grandstands awaiting the thunderous hoofbeats of the finest thoroughbreds in the land. Yet, beneath the sea of hats, colorful jockey silks and the roar of the crowd lies another cherished icon of Kentucky’s heritage: Bourbon. Just as the Derby represents the pinnacle of horse racing, Kentucky bourbon stands as a symbol of craftsmanship and refinement. As the Derby’s unofficial companion, Kentucky Bourbon weaves itself seamlessly through the fabric of the event, adding a warmth to the chill of mint juleps and a depth of flavor to the festivities.
Over the years, the Kentucky Derby has seen several bourbon brands take leading sponsorship roles during the race, capitalizing on the event’s prestige and massive viewership. Today that leading role is helmed by Brown-Forman and Woodford Reserve. Maybe one of the most iconic bourbon sponsors in Derby history, Woodford Reserve has been the presenting sponsor since 1996. Each year Woodford releases special edition bottles to commemorate the event with a Derby themed label across the front. Some other notable brands that have had connections with Churchill Downs are Early Times, who had a long history of association with the Kentucky Derby dating all the way back to the 1930s, as well as Old Forrester, and Makers Mark.
As we gear up for the most anticipated horse race of the year, I’m excited to present four Derby-themed cocktails. Each is crafted from a bourbon brand that has played a role in the storied past of Churchill Downs. These spirited concoctions are a toast to tradition and the thrilling moments that make the Derby a celebrated event.
The Official Kentucky Derby Cigar
From their web site: The Kentucky Derby is all about tradition. Ted’s Kentucky Derby Cigar has been the official cigar for over 15 years – a favorite with cigar lovers and Derby collectors alike. Enjoy a Mint Julip and your victory cigar in the winner’s circle.
Details
- Size: 6 x 50
- Wrapper: Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade
- Binder: Ecuadorian Sumatra
- Filler: Dominican piloto cubano and criollo 98’
- Handmade in the Dominican Republic
- Each cigar is hand-sealed in a glass tube. No humidification required – the perfect “go anywhere cigar”
The Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is not just a refreshing cocktail but is a symbol deeply ingrained in the Kentucky Derby’s tradition. This iconic drink has a history that dates to the late 1930s when it became the Kentucky Derby’s official drink. What better way to make a Mint Julep than with some Old Forester.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 ounces Old Forester 100
- .5 ounce simple syrup
- 8-10 leaves fresh mint
Instructions
- Place the mint leaves in a julep cup or a tall glass and pour in the simple syrup.
- Muddle until slightly bruised.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice. (If you don’t have crushed ice, any ice will do)
- Pour in your Old Forester and stir until your glass becomes frosty.
- Add more crushed ice to top it off.
- Place a mint leaf on the top to garnish.
- ENJOY!!!
The Kentucky Lemonade
Another refreshing and tasty cocktail that’s great for derby day is the Kentucky Lemonade. Made with bourbon, lemonade, lemon-lime soda, and garnished with a wedge of lemon, this cocktail is perfect for those who want to enjoy something refreshing but not overpowering.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of Woodford Reserve
- 6 ounces of Lemonade
- 1 lemon
- A couple of mint leaves
- Maraschino cherry
Instructions
- In a large rocks glass or highball pour in your bourbon
- Add your lemonade
- Stir
- Fill the glass with ice
- Garnish with a lemon wheel on the side of the glass
- Add your mint leaves and cherry to the top
- ENJOY!!
The Bourbon Rickey
A classic cocktail for the person who wants to enjoy the taste of bourbon without all the sweetness. Simple to make and easy to drink, this bourbon, lime juice, and club soda cocktail is not only tangy but refreshing. If you are looking for that Derby drink to quinch your thirst while enjoying a little bourbon, look no further. This just might be what you need!
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of Makers Mark
- 1/2 ounce of lime juice
- 2 lime wheels
- Soda water to top it off
Instructions
- In a highball glass, fill your glass with ice
- Pour in your lime juice
- Add your Makers Mark
- Add your lime wheels inside the drink
- Top off with soda water
- ENJOY!!!
The Man O’ War
Named after the legendary racehorse who won 20 out of the 21 races in the 1919-1920 season. Man O’ War was one of the greatest racehorses who ever lived. Although he didn’t run in the Kentucky Derby, he did go on to win the other two legs of the Triple Crown. He won the Preakness Stakes and Belmont Stake, both in 1920. I think it was only right that someone named a drink after him. Cheers Man O’ War!
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of Early Times Bottled In Bond
- 1 ounce orange curacao
- 1/2 ounce sweet vermouth
- 1/2 ounce fresh lemon juice
- Orange (for the garnish)
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, pour all of your ingredients
- Add ice
- Shake hard until chilled.
- Strain into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist
- ENJOY!!!
So, whether it’s the thrill of the race or the warmth of a bourbon toast, the Kentucky Derby remains a timeless celebration of heritage, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of the Bluegrass State. Cheers to the 150th year of the Derby, to the history made and the memories cherished, as the Derby and bourbon continue to reign supreme in the hearts and glasses of race fans and bourbon lovers worldwide.
LET’S START A CONVERSATION!
What do you think about these Derby inspired cocktails? Do you have a favorite? Have you ever been to the Kentucky Derby or any horse race in general? Would you like to go? I would love to know your thoughts, so comment below. You know I love conversation and will reply to you. As always, I want to thank you so much for taking the time to read this. Until the next Whiskey Wednesday, if you’re going to enjoy a little smoke & oak, just remember, “Life’s too short, enjoy the good stuff…” and do it responsibly!
Charles Ruth