If you are a true horse racing fan, then you’d know that this isn’t just a sport.
It is a cultural event, a social gathering where the action of the races is just the cherry on top. It's more about the actual experience of the race, rather than just the horses running.
When you think about it, big horse racing events like the Kentucky Derby last around 2 minutes, but more than 150,000 people turn up at Churchill Downs. So, do you really think that they all traveled to Churchill Downs for two minutes?
Of course not. It’s about the experience that these races bring to the table. But what makes the derby day experience so special? Well, a couple of things like fashion, networking with people, good food, betting, and of course, cocktails!
What’s the best way to experience a race? Well, sipping on a cocktail while using a horse betting sign up bonus by TwinSpires and cheering for your horse!
Over the years, horse racing events developed a long tradition with cocktails, and some of these events even created their own signature cocktails that reached global popularity. Since cocktails are so important, let’s dive into some of the best ones that are fan favorites.
1. Mint Julep: The Star of the Kentucky Derby
We have to start at the Kentucky Derby, but there is a good reason for that. This is one of the oldest horse racing events in the United States and one of the first ones to create their own signature cocktail.
Yes, we are talking about that refreshing Mint Julep! Even though the race is in May, and the temperature is not very hot, Mint Julep is the ultimate refreshing drink for the Kentucky Derby.
This drink was crowned as the drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938, and even the serving of the Mint Julep is considered an experience since they serve it in elegant silver cups.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz simple syrup (sugar dissolved in water)
- Fresh mint leaves
- Crushed ice
- Optional: Silver julep cup for authenticity
Instructions:
- Lightly muddle a few mint leaves with simple syrup at the bottom of your cup.
- Fill the cup generously with crushed ice.
- Pour the bourbon over the ice and stir until the cup frosts.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint. To enhance the aroma, clap the mint between your hands before adding.
2. Black-Eyed Susan: Preakness Stakes’ Signature
Named after the state flower of Maryland (also draped on the winning horse), this cocktail has had its fair share of recipe tweaks. The original blend from the 1970s featured rum, vodka, and fruit juices. Modern versions include bourbon for an extra kick. While it may not yet rival the Julep’s fame, it’s a refreshing nod to the second leg of the Triple Crown.
Ingredients (Modern Version):
- 1.5 oz bourbon
- 0.5 oz vodka
- 0.75 oz orange juice
- 0.5 oz pineapple juice
- Splash of sour mix
Instructions:
- Combine all the ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a highball glass over ice.
- Garnish with a slice of orange or a cherry.
3. Belmont Jewel
Did you know that the third and final leg of the Triple Crown - the Belmont Stakes, is actually the oldest race of the three dating back to 1873? But despite its long history, they only introduced a signature cocktail in 2011, which means that they are quite new to the cocktail experience.
Yes, it replaced the Belmont Breeze, but this was a cocktail that was short-lived.
It features a straightforward mix of bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice. Despite its youth, it’s earned its place among fans looking to sip something bold and balanced while watching history unfold at the oldest Triple Crown event.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz bourbon
- 2 oz lemonade
- 1 oz pomegranate juice
- Ice
Instructions:
- Mix the bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice in a shaker with ice.
- Shake well and strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge or cherry.
4. Horse’s Neck
This drink brings simplicity and charm to race-day gatherings. A mix of bourbon and ginger ale, garnished with a dramatic peel of lemon zest shaped like a horse’s neck, this cocktail may not headline events but is a consistent favorite among horse racing fans. It pairs tradition with an easy-drinking vibe.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon (or brandy)
- 4–6 oz ginger ale
- Lemon peel (long spiral for garnish)
- Ice
Instructions:
- In a highball glass filled with ice, pour the bourbon.
- Top with ginger ale and stir gently.
- Garnish by draping the lemon peel spiral over the edge of the glass, mimicking a horse’s neck.
5. The Champagne Cocktail
Big races like Royal Ascot in the UK elevate the experience with champagne cocktails. Add a sugar cube, bitters, and a twist of citrus to your bubbly, and you’ve got a classy drink that screams aristocracy. Perfect for mingling with fascinators and top hats!
What’s the Big Deal About Cocktails at Horse Races?
Why do cocktails and horse racing go hand-in-hand? Beyond the races, these events are social spectacles where food, drink, and fashion converge. Attendees often dress to impress, and sipping a signature cocktail adds to the sense of occasion. Statistics show that beverage sales at major events like the Kentucky Derby can make up a significant portion of the revenue, with cocktails often priced at a premium.
These are some of the most popular cocktails that come from racing events, and they are delicious. So, next time you are hosting a horse racing watch party, try to get into the spirit of the races by including some horse-racing signature cocktails.
.png)