Does the Woodford Spire aspire to be the next cocktail of the Kentucky Derby?
Since 1939, the Mint Julep has been the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Juleps themselves have been an integral part of the American South since the 1770s. At that time, medical journals promoted the consumption of juleps for upset stomachs or just bad days. The slightly sweet, minty, whiskey cocktail was a huge hit and continues to soothe Derby guests today.
However, the Mint Julep doesn’t have to be the only cocktail served on the big day. At least, not if Woodford Reserve has anything to say about it. For the last few years now, Woodford Reserve has been a big sponsor of the Kentucky Derby, which comes with a few perks. With Woodford flowing through the race, it seemed only natural to build a cocktail for that precise purpose.
In 2018, Woodford’s Master Distiller, Chris Morris, invented the Woodford Spire to be served on Derby Day. Naturally, Woodford Reserve Distiller’s Select is the recommended base to this drink, but we won’t tell if you use another bourbon. The whiskey is then paired with sweet and sour lemonade and cranberry juice for a refreshing flavor. Finally, in honor of the Twin Spires of Churchill Downs (and to solidify their place in Derby culture), the cocktail was named the Woodford Spire.
Pour this drink into a julep cup filled with crushed ice, place your final bets, and then you’ll be off to the races.
Woodford Spire
Equipment
- 1 Mixing Glass
- 1 Bar Spoon
- 1 Julep Cup
Ingredients
- 1½ ounces Bourbon
- 2 ounces Lemonade
- 1 ounce Cranberry Juice
- 1 wheel Lemon
Instructions
- To a mixing glass filled with ice, add 1½ ounces of Bourbon, 2 ounces of lemonade, and 1 ounce of cranberry juice.
- Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture until well chilled.
- Strain into a Julep cup filled with ice.
- Garnish with a wheel of lemon.
