When a sporting event is only two minutes long, that leaves more time for sipping a frosty Mint Julep. And when Kentucky produces 95% of the world’s bourbon, the cocktail you serve at the Derby—aka the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports—definitely starts with bourbon, too.
Mint juleps are a classic at the Kentucky Derby, and if you’re craving one or wondering what the fuss is all about, they happen to be incredibly easy to make at home. All you need is bourbon, fresh mint leaves, and plenty of crushed ice. You can add a splash of simple syrup in there too, if you like. One of the beverages below features a jalapeño-infused simple syrup, and when I visited Churchill Downs a couple of years ago to preview the Derby’s menu, they were serving a mint julep with rose simple syrup to celebrate the 150th Run for the Roses. So while a classic mint julep is a Derby staple for a reason, don’t be afraid to add a little flavor to all that bourbon and crushed ice.
If mint isn’t your thing, any bourbon cocktail will do on Derby Day. Here we’ve got five easy bourbon-based cocktails that are all easy to stir together and only call for just a few ingredients. There’s a batch cocktail for you to serve guests, a Kentucky spin on a classic sidecar, and a cooler with a kick of spicy ginger beer. So grab a bottle of your favorite bourbon, a fascinator or a fancy hat, and stir up one of these bourbon-based cocktails. One of these beverages might become your new favorite, and I would put money on that if I was a betting kind of gal.
Classic Mint Julep
It isn’t Derby Day without a classic Mint Julep. Just like all the fancy dresses and unique hats, a mint julep is quite elegant in appearance. In reality, it’s anything but fussy. Mint, simple syrup, and crushed ice are a cool complement to a strong pour of bourbon. If you’ve never had a mint julep before, they can be quite strong at first sip. But you are supposed to sip them and let the ice melt to dilute all the bourbon. This makes for the perfect chilled beverage on a warm May day. You don’t have to serve them in silver or pewter julep cups if you don’t have them (they’ll be great in any old cup!), but it does make everything more fun for your Derby party.
Get the recipe for Classic Mint Juleps.
Bourbon Derby Punch
If you’re looking for a Derby Day beverage that’ll serve a crowd, let me introduce you to this Bourbon Derby Punch. It’s a batch cocktail, so you don’t have to fool with mixing up individual drinks. Stir together your favorite bourbon (or Woodford Reserve if you’re abiding by Derby custom), orange curacao, sweet vermouth, fresh lime juice, and some club soda for a simple and easy drink for Derby festivities. Garnish with lime, fresh mint, and cute little bow ties if you’re feeling fancy.
Get the recipe for Bourbon Derby Punch.
Spicy Ginger Beer-and-Bourbon Cooler
This spicy little sipper is the ultimate warm-weather picnic-ready cocktail, meaning it’s perfect for the first weekend of May. The first Saturday in May can get a little warm, especially in the sun, so nothing beats this bourbon cooler. And it couldn't be easier to make! Equal parts sweet bourbon, spicy ginger beer, and a dash of bitters are all you need for a sipper that's as refreshing as can be.
Get the recipe for Spicy Ginger Beer-and-Bourbon Cooler.
Jalapeño-Spiked Bourbon Julep
This is not your average mint julep. Adding an infused simple syrup to this classic cocktail is a fun and interesting way to change things up and play with flavors. Sweet and spicy jalapeño simple syrup pairs with the caramelized, vanilla, and oaky notes for a truly unique cocktail. Serve this up on Saturday and you might end up with more ideas for flavored simple syrups for next year’s Derby!
Get the recipe for Jalapeño-Spiked Bourbon Julep.
M5 Bourbon Sidecar
This sidecar swaps brandy for bourbon, making it a fun and delicious cocktail for the Derby. This simple three-ingredient cocktail uses fresh Meyer lemon juice, but feel free to use regular lemons if Meyer lemons are no longer in season in your area. A splash of orange liqueur amps up the zesty flavor, and a sugared rim balances out the tartness of the lemon juice. Plus, it adds just the right amount of sparkle and elegance that goes so well with Derby Day.
