Kentucky Derby cocktails

Kentucky Derby Mint Julep, Cocktails & Mocktails

As the Kentucky Derby draws near, it's time to dust off your hats, polish your shoes, and prepare for the most exciting two minutes in sports. And what better way to celebrate this iconic event than with a Kentucky Derby-themed party filled with delicious Kentucky Derby Cocktails? Join us as we take you on a journey through the world of Derby drinks, starting with the quintessential Mint Julep—the official drink of the Kentucky Derby.

Kentucky Derby mint julep

Kentucky Derby Drink Recipes

Classic Kentucky Derby Mint Julep
Ingredients:

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • Crushed ice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Crushed ice
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Crushed ice

Instructions:

  1. Begin by gently muddling a few fresh mint leaves and simple syrup in the bottom of a silver julep cup or glass.
  2. Fill the glass with crushed ice, packing it tightly.
  3. Pour the bourbon over the ice, allowing it to mix with the
    mint and syrup.
  4. Stir gently.
  5. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and serve with a straw.

Kentucky Derby sangria

Classic Kentucky Derby Sangria
Ingredients:

  • 1 bottle of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc
  • 1/2 cup bourbon
  • 1/4 cup peach schnapps
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 cup sliced peaches
  • 1 cup sliced strawberries
  • 1 cup raspberries
  • 1 cup club soda

Instructions:

  1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, bourbon, peach schnapps, and honey. Stir until the honey is dissolved.
  2. Add the sliced peaches, strawberries, and raspberries, stirring gently.
  3. Refrigerate the sangria for at least an hour.
  4. Just before serving, add club soda and stir gently.
  5. Serve over ice, garnished with additional fruit slices if desired.

Kentucky Derby southern belle mocktail

Southern Belle Mocktail
Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup fresh lemonade
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened iced tea
  • 1/4 cup ginger ale
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Lemon slices

Instructions:

  1. Fill a glass with ice.
  2. Pour the fresh lemonade and unsweetened iced tea over the ice, stirring gently.
  3. Top with ginger ale.
  4. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a slice of lemon.
  5. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing southern flavors.

Derby delight punch

Derby Delight Punch
Ingredients:

  • 2 cups bourbon
  • 1 cup peach nectar
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup simple syrup
  • 2 cups club soda
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Garnish with peaches and lemon wheels.

Instructions:

  1. In a large punch bowl, combine the bourbon, peach nectar, lemon juice and simple syrup. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Just before serving, add the club soda, stirring gently.
  3. Add a handful of fresh mint leaves for extra flavor and visual interest.
  4. Ladle the punch into glasses filled with ice, garnishing each with a slice of peach and a lemon wheel.
  5. Toast to the Derby with a delightful punch that's sure to be a hit.

couple in Kentucky Derby outfits

No matter which drink you choose to serve at your Kentucky Derby party, one thing is for certain: it's sure to be a celebration to remember. So, gather your friends, don your finest Derby Day attire, and raise a glass to the most exciting two minutes in sports. Cheers!

UP NEXT:

Churchill Downs racetrack

Guide to Churchill Downs

couple listening to Kentucky Derby playlist

Kentucky Derby Party Playlist Guide

Check out the rest of our Kentucky Derby Guide for tips on what to wear, throwing your own party and how to get around Churchill Downs.