The Triple Crown is one of the most prestigious events in the world of horse racing. It consists of three races, the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes.
Winning all three races is a rare feat and only 13 horses have accomplished it in history.
But what does horse racing have to do with cocktails, you might ask? Well, the Triple Crown has inspired some of the most delicious and popular cocktails in the world.
These drinks are as complex and sophisticated as the horses that compete in the races.
Each cocktail represents a different race, with unique flavors and ingredients that capture the spirit of the event.
They are perfect for sipping while watching the races or enjoying with friends at a party.
Whether you're a fan of horse racing or just love a good cocktail, the Triple Crown cocktails are a must-try.
So, saddle up and get ready to discover the best recipes that will make you feel like a winner.
1. The Belmont Jewel
The Belmont Jewel is the official drink of the Belmont Stakes, and it's not hard to see why. This sweet and tart cocktail is made with bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice, making it both refreshing and flavorful. It's perfect for sipping on a hot summer day, but it's also great for entertaining, as you can easily scale up the recipe to make a batch cocktail.
And let's not forget about its beautiful jewel-like appearance, which makes it a showstopper at any party. While it's associated with the Belmont Stakes, this cocktail is definitely not just for horse racing fans. It's a delicious drink that can be enjoyed all year round.
2. Black Eyed Susan Cocktail
The Black Eyed Susan Cocktail is a must-try for any horse racing enthusiast or cocktail lover. As the official drink of the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown, this cocktail is a perfect addition to any race day celebration. With a mix of rum, vodka, and orange juice, this cocktail packs a punch and is sure to get the party started.
The addition of Triple Sec and banana-flavored juice adds a unique twist to the classic screwdriver, making it a refreshing and fruity option for any occasion. Whether you're watching the races or just looking for a new cocktail to try, the Black Eyed Susan is a great choice that is sure to impress.
3. Belmont Jewel Punch
The Belmont Jewel Punch is a refreshing and mouthwatering party punch that combines the flavors of cranberry and orange juices with Bourbon and the fizz of lemon lime soda. This twist on the official cocktail of the Belmont Stakes is perfect for summer happy hours and get-togethers.
The sweet and sour mix used in this cocktail is made with lemon and/or lime juice and a sweet simple syrup. If you love Bourbon, you will love the depth of delicious flavor in this punch. The Belmont Jewel Punch is a must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to enjoy during the Triple Crown season.
4. The Belmont Bramble
"The Belmont Bramble" is a modern twist on the traditional Belmont Jewel cocktail, perfect for the Belmont Stakes race day. This cocktail features fresh blackberry puree, lemonade, and earthy basil, combined with Maker's Mark Whisky. The blackberry theme is evident in the name of the cocktail, as blackberries grow on bramble bushes.
This cocktail is sure to impress whiskey lovers and turn anyone into one. The combination of sweet and sour flavors, along with the whiskey's warmth, makes it a refreshing and satisfying drink. If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to serve on race day, "The Belmont Bramble" is definitely worth trying.
5. The Belmont Jewel Cocktail
The Belmont Jewel Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for a summer day. This cocktail is a combination of bourbon, lemonade, pomegranate juice, and simple syrup, with a bit of sparkling soda to add some fizz. The name of the cocktail is befitting of the third jewel in the Triple Crown, and the ease of preparation makes it a great choice for any party.
The bourbon-forward taste may not be for everyone, but adding the sparkling soda helps to tone it down a bit. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to enjoy while watching the Belmont Stakes, the Belmont Jewel Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
6. Horse's Neck Cocktail
The Horse's Neck Cocktail is a classic and refreshing cocktail that has been around since 1895. It gets its name from the long lemon twist that hangs over the edge of the glass, resembling a horse's neck.
The cocktail can be made with or without alcohol, and it is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make, and the amount of bourbon can be adjusted to suit your taste.
7. Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It is a refreshing summer drink that is perfect for beating the heat. Made with just four simple ingredients, this cocktail is easy to make and is a favorite among novice and expert bartenders alike.
The combination of fresh mint, sugar, bourbon, and mineral water creates a sweet and boozy flavor that is sure to please any palate. This cocktail is perfect for any warm-weather gathering and is a great addition to your summer cocktail list. With its timeless elegance and bubbly effervescence, the Mint Julep is a Triple Crown Cocktail that is sure to impress.
8. Kentucky Derby Mint Julep
The Kentucky Derby Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that is a must-try for any bourbon lover. This refreshing drink features a delicious mint simple syrup that perfectly complements the bourbon, making it a great choice for a summer day.
The cocktail is traditionally served in a pewter or copper julep cup, but it can also be enjoyed in a plain old glass. The garnish of a fresh mint sprig adds to the aroma and flavor of the drink. Overall, the Kentucky Derby Mint Julep is a simple yet delicious cocktail that is sure to impress any guest at your next party.
9. Triple Crown Cocktail
The Triple Crown Cocktail is a refreshing and unique twist on the classic mint julep. This cocktail combines the bold flavors of bourbon with the tangy kick of ginger kombucha, resulting in a drink that is both complex and refreshing.
The crushed ice adds a nice texture to the drink, making it perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. The Triple Crown Cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their cocktail repertoire.
10. Brown Sugar-Peach Mint Julep
The Brown Sugar-Peach Mint Julep is a refreshing twist on a classic bourbon cocktail. Made with a homemade dark brown sugar simple syrup and freshly muddled peaches, this summery drink is perfect for a Kentucky Derby party or a warm summer evening.
The brown sugar adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the caramel undertones of the bourbon, while the fresh peaches add a touch of sweetness and acidity. Served in a traditional pewter or copper cup, this cocktail is both elegant and delicious. If you're looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to impress your guests, the Brown Sugar-Peach Mint Julep is a must-try.
11. Sweet Tea Mint Juleps
The Sweet Tea Mint Julep is a refreshing blend of two classic southern drinks that is perfect for a summer afternoon spent on the front porch or for sipping while watching the Triple Crown races. This cocktail is a variation of the traditional Mint Julep, but with a twist of sweet tea infused with fresh mint, bourbon, and lemon.
It's a perfect drink for those who enjoy the taste of bourbon but prefer a less potent cocktail. The Sweet Tea Mint Julep is easy to make and can be enjoyed all summer long, especially if you have a ready supply of fresh mint. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves the taste of sweet tea and bourbon.
12. Classic Mint Julep
The Classic Mint Julep is a refreshing and classic cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day. This bourbon-forward drink is sweetened with sugar or simple syrup and flavored with fresh mint leaves. The mint adds a refreshing and cooling element to the drink, making it perfect for outdoor events like the Kentucky Derby.
Originally made with spearmint, any fresh mint can be used to create this delicious cocktail. While the official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby Mint Julep is Old Forester, many believe that Woodford Reserve is the best bourbon for this drink. The smooth flavor of Woodford Reserve pairs perfectly with the bourbon-forward taste of the Classic Mint Julep. If you're a bourbon lover, this cocktail is a must-try.
13. Black-Eyed Susan
The Black-Eyed Susan is a classic cocktail named after the flowers used to make the blanket that drapes the winning horse at the Preakness Stakes. This bourbon-based cocktail is a riff on the original recipe, making it a perfect drink to enjoy while watching the second race of the Triple Crown.
The cocktail has a sweet and fruity taste with a hint of bourbon, making it a refreshing drink to sip on a hot summer day. The Black-Eyed Susan is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a classic cocktail with a twist.
