The Triple Crown is not only a prestigious title in horse racing but also a set of exquisite cocktails that embody sophistication and timeless elegance. Comprising the Belmont Stakes, the Kentucky Derby, and the Preakness Stakes cocktails, the Triple Crown collection is a celebration of craftsmanship and tradition. In this blog, we’ll explore the art of preparing these classic cocktails, each named after one of the illustrious races.
1. Belmont Jewel: The Jeweled Elegance
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 1 oz Lemonade
- 0.5 oz Pomegranate juice
- Orange zest for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill the Glass:
- In a highball glass filled with ice cubes, pour 2 oz of bourbon.
- Add Lemonade:
- Pour 1 oz of lemonade into the glass, adding a refreshing citrusy balance to the mix.
- Introduce Pomegranate Juice:
- Drizzle 0.5 oz of pomegranate juice into the glass for a burst of color and subtle sweetness.
- Stir Gently:
- Using a stirring stick or spoon, gently stir the ingredients to combine them without diluting the drink excessively.
- Garnish with Orange Zest:
- Express the oils from an orange zest over the drink by twisting it over the glass. Drop the zest into the cocktail for a citrusy aroma.
- Serve and Savor:
- Your Belmont Jewel is ready to be served. Enjoy the harmonious blend of bourbon, citrus, and pomegranate in this jewel-toned delight.
2. Mint Julep: The Derby Classic
Ingredients:
- 2.5 oz Bourbon
- 8-10 Fresh mint leaves
- 0.5 oz Simple syrup
- Crushed ice
- Mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
- Muddle Mint:
- In a silver or pewter cup, gently muddle 8-10 fresh mint leaves to release their aromatic oils.
- Add Simple Syrup:
- Pour 0.5 oz of simple syrup into the cup, adding sweetness to the mixture.
- Fill with Crushed Ice:
- Fill the cup with crushed ice, packing it tightly to ensure a well-chilled cocktail.
- Pour Bourbon:
- Pour 2.5 oz of bourbon over the crushed ice, letting it mingle with the mint and syrup.
- Stir Well:
- Stir the ingredients well to mix the flavors and allow the drink to chill further.
- Garnish with Mint Sprig:
- Garnish the Mint Julep with a fresh mint sprig for a touch of aromatic elegance.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Sip slowly and savor the refreshing and iconic taste of the Mint Julep – a classic associated with the Kentucky Derby.
3. Black-Eyed Susan: The Preakness Pleaser
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Vodka
- 0.75 oz St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur
- 2 oz Pineapple juice
- 0.75 oz Lime juice
- 0.5 oz Simple syrup
- Orange slice and cherry for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Fill the Shaker:
- In a cocktail shaker, combine 1.5 oz of vodka, 0.75 oz of St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, 2 oz of pineapple juice, 0.75 oz of lime juice, and 0.5 oz of simple syrup.
- Add Ice and Shake:
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake the ingredients vigorously to chill the mixture.
- Strain into Glass:
- Strain the Black-Eyed Susan into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Garnish:
- Garnish the cocktail with an orange slice and a cherry for a vibrant and fruity presentation.
- Serve and Raise a Toast:
- Your Black-Eyed Susan is ready to be served. Raise your glass and toast to the excitement of the Preakness Stakes with this delightful cocktail.
Conclusion:
Crafting the Triple Crown cocktails is not just about mixing ingredients; it’s about capturing the essence of each prestigious race in a glass. Whether you prefer the citrusy elegance of the Belmont Jewel, the timeless classic Mint Julep associated with the Kentucky Derby, or the fruity and refreshing Black-Eyed Susan from the Preakness Stakes, these cocktails are a toast to tradition, glamour, and the thrill of horse racing. So, gather your ingredients, hone your mixology skills, and prepare to indulge in the refined pleasures of the Triple Crown cocktails – a true celebration of craftsmanship and taste. Cheers!
