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Top 8 Kentucky Derby Cocktails

Updated: 4 days ago

The Kentucky Derby is not just about horse racing - it’s also a celebration of bourbon and cocktails. Here’s a quick guide to the best drinks to serve at your Derby party:

  • Mint Julep: The classic Derby cocktail with bourbon, mint, and crushed ice.
  • Ken-Tiki Derby Julep: A tropical twist with pineapple juice and orgeat syrup.
  • Kentucky Mule: Bourbon meets ginger beer for a refreshing kick.
  • Old Forester Oaks Lily: A fruity vodka-based favorite with citrus and berries.
  • Kentucky Gambler Punch: A large-batch cocktail with bourbon, citrus juices, and champagne.
  • Strawberry Basil Smash: Sweet strawberries, fresh basil, and bourbon.
  • Cinco De Derby: A bold mix of tequila, bourbon, and ginger beer.
  • Kentucky Bride with Smokey Eyes: A smoky bourbon cocktail with honey and rosemary.

Stock up on premium bourbons from Ace Spirits and add excitement with Derby betting on BettorEdge. Ready to mix? Dive into the recipes and tips to craft the perfect Derby experience.


3 Must-Try Kentucky DERBY Cocktails | J. Rieger Co.


1. Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is the classic cocktail of the Kentucky Derby.

Here’s how to make a perfect Mint Julep:

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz bourbon (choose a high-quality one)
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup
  • 8–10 fresh mint leaves
  • Crushed ice
  • Mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Lightly muddle the mint leaves with simple syrup in a silver julep cup or a Collins glass.
  2. Pour in the bourbon and fill the cup with crushed ice.
  3. Stir until the outside of the cup feels frosty.
  4. Add more crushed ice to create a rounded top.
  5. Finish with a mint sprig for garnish.

Pro Tips:

  • Always use fresh mint for the best flavor.
  • Muddle gently - overdoing it can make the drink bitter.
  • Chill your cup before making the cocktail for an extra-cool experience.
  • Crushed ice is key to the drink’s signature texture and chill.

For the full Derby vibe, serve it in a traditional silver julep cup. These cups develop a frosty layer that’s both visually appealing and functional.

Looking for the best bourbon? Get it at Ace Spirits.

Once you’ve nailed the Mint Julep, try experimenting with other Derby-inspired cocktails!


2. Ken-Tiki Derby Julep

The Ken-Tiki Derby Julep brings a tropical vibe to the classic mint julep, mixing Kentucky bourbon with a touch of island-inspired ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz high-proof bourbon
  • 0.75 oz fresh pineapple juice
  • 0.5 oz orgeat syrup
  • 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
  • 6–8 fresh mint leaves
  • Crushed ice
  • Pineapple wedge and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Muddle the mint leaves with orgeat syrup in a cocktail shaker.
  2. Add bourbon, pineapple juice, and lime juice to the shaker.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake well for 10–12 seconds.
  4. Strain the mix into a chilled julep cup or tiki mug. Top it with more crushed ice to create a snow cone-like effect.
  5. Finish with a pineapple wedge and a mint sprig for garnish.

Expert Tips:

  • Opt for bourbon with a proof of 100 or higher to make sure its flavor holds up against the fruity elements.
  • Always use fresh pineapple juice for the best taste - skip canned options.
  • For an extra aromatic touch, try flaming an orange peel over the drink.

Need ingredients? Check out Ace Spirits for quality bourbon and orgeat syrup. This refreshing take on a Derby favorite is a must-try for cocktail enthusiasts.


3. Kentucky Mule

The Kentucky Mule blends the rich taste of bourbon with the zing of ginger beer, making it a go-to for Derby celebrations.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
  • 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
  • 4-6 oz ginger beer (use a quality brand)
  • Fresh mint sprig for garnish
  • Lime wheel for garnish
  • Crushed ice

Instructions:

  1. Fill a copper mule mug with crushed ice.
  2. Add bourbon and fresh lime juice over the ice.
  3. Pour in 4–6 oz of ginger beer, adjusting based on your mug size.
  4. Stir gently to mix everything together.
  5. Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel.

Expert Tips:

  • Pick a bourbon with at least 90 proof to ensure the flavors shine.
  • Chill your copper mug in the freezer for 15 minutes before serving for an extra frosty experience.
  • Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for a bright, clean taste.
  • Opt for a spicy ginger beer instead of ginger ale to keep the drink true to its roots.

This cocktail is all about balance: the boldness of bourbon, the citrusy kick of lime, and the fiery touch of ginger beer. Plus, the copper mug keeps it icy cold and bubbly.

Hosting a Derby party? Check out premium bourbon options at Ace Spirits and make the event even more thrilling with a friendly wager on BettorEdge.


4. Old Forester Oaks Lily

The Old Forester Oaks Lily is a fantastic cocktail choice for your Derby festivities. Here are a few ways you can tweak it to suit your taste:

  • Swap in citrus vodka for a zesty kick.
  • Add a splash of champagne for a bubbly finish.
  • Use fresh lemon juice mixed with simple syrup instead of store-bought mixers.
  • Garnish with fresh raspberries or strawberries for a fruity touch.

Make your Derby party even better by grabbing premium spirits from Ace Spirits and adding some excitement with bets on BettorEdge.


5. Kentucky Gambler Punch

The Kentucky Gambler Punch is the ultimate cocktail for a Derby watch party, serving 10–12 guests with a mix of bourbon, fresh fruit juices, and bubbly prosecco or champagne.

What You’ll Need:

  • 750ml Kentucky bourbon (choose a high-quality brand)
  • 32 oz fresh orange juice
  • 16 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 12 oz honey syrup
  • 2 bottles of prosecco or champagne
  • Orange and lemon slices for garnish
  • A large decorative ice block or sphere

Quick Tips for a Show-Stopping Punch:

  • Make honey syrup by combining equal parts honey and hot water. Let it cool and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
  • For a standout visual, freeze edible flowers and citrus slices into a large ice block using a bundt pan or a special punch mold.

How to Serve:

  1. Combine the bourbon, orange juice, lemon juice, and honey syrup in a punch bowl.
  2. Add the decorative ice block to keep everything chilled.
  3. Right before serving, gently stir in the chilled prosecco or champagne.
  4. Garnish with orange and lemon slices.
  5. Serve with a ladle and punch cups for easy pouring.

Pro Tip: You can mix the bourbon, juices, and honey syrup up to 4 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated, and add the prosecco and ice just before serving for the freshest flavor.

For premium bourbon, check out Ace Spirits, and don’t forget to place your Derby bets on BettorEdge!


6. Strawberry Basil Smash

The Strawberry Basil Smash is a delightful blend of sweet strawberries, fragrant basil, and smooth bourbon, offering a fresh take on Derby-inspired cocktails.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Kentucky bourbon
  • 4 fresh strawberries
  • 4-5 fresh basil leaves
  • ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
  • ½ oz simple syrup
  • Club soda (for topping)
  • Ice cubes
  • Strawberry and basil (for garnish)

How to Make It:

  1. Muddle strawberries and basil with simple syrup in a mixing glass until well combined.
  2. Add bourbon and lemon juice to the mixture.
  3. Fill the glass with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
  4. Double strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass.
  5. Add a splash of club soda on top.
  6. Garnish with a fresh strawberry and a basil leaf for a polished look.

Tips for a Great Cocktail:

  • Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the sweetest flavor.
  • Gently clap the basil leaves between your hands to release their aroma.
  • Swap regular simple syrup for brown sugar simple syrup to add depth.
  • Double straining keeps the drink smooth, free of seeds and basil bits.

Planning Ahead: Prepare the strawberry-basil mix up to 4 hours before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and combine with bourbon and other ingredients when you're ready to mix. Pair this cocktail with premium bourbon and enjoy the Derby spirit.

For top-quality bourbon, visit Ace Spirits, and place your Derby bets on BettorEdge.


7. Cinco De Derby

The Cinco De Derby combines reposado tequila and Kentucky bourbon, giving your Derby celebration a bold and unexpected twist.

  • 1.5 oz reposado tequila
  • 1 oz Kentucky bourbon
  • 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
  • 0.5 oz agave nectar
  • 4–5 fresh mint leaves
  • 2 dashes orange bitters
  • Ginger beer (for topping)
  • Ice cubes
  • Mint sprig and lime wheel (for garnish)

How to Make It

  1. Muddle the mint leaves and agave nectar in a shaker.
  2. Add the tequila, bourbon, lime juice, and orange bitters.
  3. Toss in some ice and shake well for about 20 seconds.
  4. Strain the mix into a Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
  5. Top with about 2 oz of ginger beer.
  6. Garnish with a mint sprig and a lime wheel for that final touch.

For premium spirits, check out Ace Spirits. Want to add some fun to your Derby party? Place your bets on BettorEdge!


8. Kentucky Bride with Smokey Eyes

Kick up your Derby festivities with the Kentucky Bride with Smokey Eyes - a smoky twist on bourbon that's sure to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz smoked bourbon (Woodford Reserve works great)
  • 0.75 oz honey syrup
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • 2 dashes orange bitters
  • 1 rosemary sprig
  • Smoked sea salt (for the rim)
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist (for garnish)

Steps to make it:

  1. Rim a chilled coupe glass with smoked sea salt.
  2. Combine smoked bourbon, honey syrup, lemon juice, and orange bitters in a mixing glass.
  3. Add ice and stir for about 30 seconds.
  4. Lightly torch the rosemary until it smokes, then extinguish it.
  5. Place the smoking rosemary in the prepared coupe glass.
  6. Double-strain the cocktail mixture into the glass over the smoking rosemary.
  7. Finish with a lemon twist garnish.

Pro tips:

  • Torch the inside of your mixing glass before adding ingredients to amplify the smoky flavor.
  • To make honey syrup, mix equal parts honey and hot water until fully blended.
  • Opt for a high-quality smoked bourbon to bring out the cocktail's full depth.

Pair this bold drink with your Derby picks on BettorEdge for a winning combination.


How to Get Derby Party Supplies

Plan your Kentucky Derby party with top-notch cocktail ingredients using this handy guide.

Bourbon Selection

Ace Spirits offers a range of bourbons to elevate your Derby cocktails:

Specialty Add-Ons

Don't miss this must-have for cocktail variations:

How to Shop

Ace Spirits makes it easy to stock up:

  • Order online with shipping options
  • Choose local delivery or in-store pickup in Minnetonka
  • Get $10 off your first order over $50 by signing up for their newsletter

Shopping Tips

  • Place your order early to grab popular bourbons before they sell out
  • Use the newsletter discount to save on your first purchase
  • Buy in bulk if you're hosting a larger crowd
  • Double-check shipping times to ensure everything arrives on time

Add Betting to the Fun

Make race day even more exciting by placing your bets through BettorEdge.

Party Planning for 20 Guests

For a group of 20, here's what you'll need:

  • 2–3 bottles of premium bourbon
  • 1 bottle of specialty syrup
  • Fresh garnishes like mint and citrus
  • Plenty of mixers and ice

With your supplies and bets ready, you're all set to enjoy the Derby in style!


Final Tips

Start planning your cocktail party well in advance. Create a shopping list at least two weeks ahead, ordering specialty items from AceSpirits early, and pick up perishables 1-2 days before the event. Once your AceSpirits order arrives and your guest list is finalized, double-check that your betting platform is ready to go.

Set up BettorEdge ahead of time so you’re all set to enjoy the excitement while sipping your cocktails. With these steps taken care of, your Kentucky Derby party will be a hit.


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