It’s that time of the year once again, promising to be the most thrilling two minutes in sports. As the 149th edition of the Kentucky Derby approaches, it’s a good idea to start considering which drinks to enjoy while watching the race. To help with planning, we’ve enlisted the help of our friend Whiskey Pete Wagner from Brown-Forman, for another edition of the “I’d Tap That” segment on the Joe Show Drive at 5. He’ll teach listeners how to create the official Kentucky Derby drinks, ranging from the traditional Mint Julep to the recently introduced Herradura Horseshoe Margarita, so you can feel like you’re part of the action at Churchill Downs. Get the rundown on drinks below:
- Mint Julep: No Kentucky Derby party is complete without a Mint Julep. Traditionally served in a silver cup, the Mint Julep features Old Forester, simple syrup, and fresh mint leaves. To make the perfect Mint Julep, fill a glass with crushed ice, add in a few fresh mint leaves, and gently smack them to release the oils. Add in 2 oz of Old Forester and .75 oz of simple syrup. Stir until the glass is frosted and top with more crushed ice. Garnish with a mint sprig.
- Woodford Spire: For those who aren’t fans of mint, the Woodford Spire is the perfect alternative. Named after the twin spires atop Churchill Downs, this cocktail features Woodford Reserve, fresh lemonade, and cranberry juice. To make the Woodford Spire, fill a glass with crushed ice, add in 1.5 oz of Woodford Reserve, 2 oz of lemonade, and 1 oz of cranberry juice. Stir well and garnish with a lemon twist.
- Oaks Lily: The Oaks Lily is the official drink of the Kentucky Oaks, which takes place the day before the Derby featuring filly races. To make the Oaks Lily, fill a glass with crushed ice, add in 1.25 oz of Finlandia Vodka, .25 oz of Triple Sec, 1 oz of sweet and sour mix, and 3 oz of cranberry juice. Enjoy!
- Herradura Horseshoe Margarita: This year marks the 50th anniversary of Secretariat, known as the greatest racehorse of all time. In celebration, the Derby has added a fourth official drink to the lineup – the Herradura Horseshoe Margarita. This drink features Herradura Tequila, fresh squeezed lime juice, and agave nectar. To make the Herradura Horseshoe Margarita, fill a glass with ice, add in 2 oz of Herradura Tequila, 1 oz of fresh squeezed lime juice, and 0.75 oz of agave nectar. Stir well and garnish with a lime wheel.
Now that you’ve learned how to make all the official drinks of the Kentucky Derby, it’s time to call up your old buddies and throw the ultimate Derby party. Crank up some classic rock music, sit back, and enjoy the race. Please enjoy responsibly.