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Kentucky Derby Drinks

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Get out your fanciest hat and let’s make Kentucky Derby drinks! Here’s what to make on Derby Day or for any party needing some Southern flair!

A silver cup filled with crushed ice and garnished with mint leaves, with extra mint leaves placed in front, on a white background.

Your ultimate guide to Kentucky Derby Cocktails

Get out your julep cups *, bowties and (very) elaborate hats, y’all! The Kentucky Derby is almost here.

If you’re unfamiliar, the Kentucky Derby is a race of thoroughbred horses that is held on the first Saturday in May each year. It takes place at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. The Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown, the championship title given to a horse that wins the three main horse races in a single season: the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes.

The Kentucky Derby has been nicknamed by Derby enthusiasts as “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” because the most important race typically lasts just that long. It’s a weekend event, since the Kentucky Oaks, another race for 3-year-old Thoroughbred fillies (young female horses), is held on Friday and the Derby is on Saturday.

Whether or not you like to watch horse racing, Derby Day parties are a great reason to enjoy spring food, bourbon drinks and chocolate desserts on the first weekend in May. From the classic mint julep (the official drink of the Kentucky Derby) to more adventurous bourbon cocktails, there is lots of inspiration below for your Derby party planning.

Front view of the Churchill Downs entrance in Louisville, with a large sign and twin spires, featuring a gated entry below.

Quick tips for hosting a Derby party

If you’re going to host a Kentucky Derby party, there are a few things you should consider to make your celebration a smashing success.

1. Dress up. Besides bourbon (and horses, of course), the Kentucky Derby is most known for the extravagant fashion, especially hats, that race-goers wear. You’ll want a fabulous hat for the festivities — if you’re able, have a few extras on-hand for guests who may forget theirs.

2. Prep the drinks. Setting up a drink bar is one of my favorite hosting tricks. Whether it’s a Bloody Mary bar for brunch or margarita bar for Taco Tuesday, a drink bar allows guests to craft their drinks exactly how they like them. It’s also a great way to save you time and prevent you from getting stuck behind the bar for the entire party.

favorite julep cups

*

For the Kentucky Derby, try a mint julep bar with different bourbon choices, several simple syrup flavors and a few garnishes in addition to mint leaves. Don’t forget tools to stir, strain or shake depending on the drink you choose to feature! Julep cups are pretty, but they’re optional in my opinion.

3. Offer something non-alcoholic. Zero-proof spirits are a must when hosting. They allow an easy alternative for anyone who prefers a non-alcoholic beverage without having to create a totally different drink. You can opt for Ritual Zero Proof * Whiskey or make your own homemade zero-proof spirit.

4. Set the scene. Don’t forget to have a way to watch the running of the Kentucky Derby. After all, the horses are the stars of the show! Find out where to watch from the Louisville Courier Journal.

5. Make it fun! For a little extra fun, have attendees vote for their favorite horse and see who is right after the race.

A gold tray with assorted chocolate truffles and bourbon balls in paper cups, featuring various toppings like nuts, cocoa, and sprinkles.

What to serve with Kentucky Derby Cocktails

If you are planning a party to watch the Kentucky Derby or any of the other Triple Crown races, you’re going to need some food and drinks with Southern flair! There are a number of must-have recipes — check out these Kentucky Derby food ideas for more!

Savory Derby food

  • Set out bowls of spicy cheese straws, which are staples of Southern parties.
  • There’s not much more southern than a big plate of deviled eggs. Top them with chives, jalapeño slices or bacon bits.
  • Make pimento cheese for a dip or serve it on sandwiches. (Add bacon if you dare.) Dill dip is another great dip for a veggie plate.
  • The Kentucky Hot Brown is the signature Louisville sandwich filled with roasted turkey, juicy tomatoes, smoked bacon and melted white cheddar cheese, that’s smothered in mornay sauce.

Derby desserts

A bottle of Four Roses Bourbon sits next to a mason jar, a jigger, and fresh mint leaves on a white surface, perfect for crafting the ideal mint julep.

The best Kentucky Derby cocktails

Now that we’ve got the snacks figured out, let’s talk about the drinks! There’s going to be a lot of mint, so go ahead and stock up so you can give every drink a gorgeous mint sprig garnish.

Most of the cocktails below call for bourbon, the official spirit of the horse race. If you have a favorite, certainly feel free to use the bourbon of your choice.

decorative icon of a rocks glass.

Don’t miss Bourbon 101 where you can learn more about my favorite brands and bottles to buy.

Bourbon 101

Each year, the Kentucky Derby has a whiskey sponsor for its mint juleps. As of time of writing, it’s Woodford Reserve. So you could always go with the sponsor pick each year when you watch the Derby, or check out my Bourbon 101 guide if you need help picking a brand to buy for your bourbon cocktails.

Pick one, two or a few to create the perfect menu for Derby day. And — please — don’t forget your most ridiculous hat!

1
a mint julep with a heaping scoop of crushed ice
Classic Mint Julep
The Classic Mint Julep is the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby, served in a silver julep cup with plenty of crushed ice. A mix of bourbon, mint, and sugar makes this refreshing cocktail a race-day essential.
Get the Recipe
2
A drink for the Preakness Stakes, the Black-Eyed Susan Cocktail is so named for the Maryland-shaped blanket of yellow flowers that is draped around the winner's neck. Vodka and elderflower liqueur join pineapple, orange and lime juices for a sunny drink worthy of race-watching. (via feastandwest.com)
Black-Eyed Susan
The Black-Eyed Susan is the official drink of the Preakness Stakes, named after the blanket of yellow flowers draped over the winner. A blend of vodka, elderflower liqueur, and citrus juices makes it a bright and festive choice.
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3
A drink for the races, the Belmont Jewel is the #1 drink for toasting the Belmont Stakes. Bourbon, lemonade and pomegranate juice served over crushed ice make for a fruity punch that's delicious all summer long. (via feastandwest.com)
Belmont Jewel
The Belmont Jewel is the official cocktail of the Belmont Stakes, the final race in the Triple Crown. A mix of bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice over ice makes this a fruity and refreshing summer drink.
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4
asparagus and bacon in a bloody derby cocktail
Bloody Derby
Swap vodka for bourbon in a Bloody Mary to create the Bloody Derby, a Southern twist on the classic brunch cocktail. The rich, smoky flavor of bourbon makes this a bold choice for race day.
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5
A moscow mule cocktail in a copper mug garnished with a lime wedge and fresh mint leaves.
Kentucky Mule
The Kentucky Mule is a bourbon-based spin on the Moscow Mule, made with ginger beer and lime. It’s a simple, refreshing drink that highlights the smoothness of Kentucky bourbon.
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6
A grey and white straw in a glass of bourbon slushy.
Bourbon Slush
The Bourbon Slush is a frozen cocktail that’s both sweet and strong. It’s the perfect way to cool down while enjoying the Derby.
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7
Julep cup in focus with mason jar, metal jigger and terra cot in background
Basil Julep
The Basil Julep is a fresh take on the classic Mint Julep, swapping mint for aromatic basil. It’s a crisp and herbal twist on this Derby favorite.
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8
A refreshing Oaks Lily cocktail with ice, lemon slices, and whole blackberries on top, served in a tall glass.
Kentucky Oaks Lily Drink
The Kentucky Oaks Lily is a refreshing vodka cocktail with cranberry and citrus, perfect for Derby festivities. Its vibrant color and fruity flavor make it a crowd-pleaser.
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9
Sip on this smooth, ice-filled Irish Whiskey Honey Mint Julep made with local wildflower honey, Irish whiskey and fresh mint. From St. Patrick's Day to the Kentucky Derby, it's a sweet toast to springtime. (via feastandwest.com)
Irish Whiskey Mint Julep
The Irish Whiskey Mint Julep replaces bourbon with smooth Irish whiskey for a unique twist. A touch of honey adds a Southern sweetness to this refreshing cocktail.
GET THE RECIPE
10
Top view of a strawberry cocktail garnished with a lemon slice and strawberry, surrounded by whole strawberries and a lemon.
Kentucky Buck Cocktail
The Kentucky Buck is a bright and zesty bourbon cocktail with muddled strawberries, lemon, and spicy ginger beer. It’s a lively drink that’s great for Derby celebrations.
GET THE RECIPE
11
mint leaves on a peach whiskey smash
Peach Whiskey Smash
The Peach Whiskey Smash is a juicy, summery bourbon cocktail with fresh peaches and mint. It’s a perfect Derby drink, whether you use fresh or frozen fruit.
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12
a honey whiskey mint julep garnished with a mint sprig in a silver julep cup on a green plate with a honey wand
Honey Mint Julep
The Honey Mint Julep uses honey whiskey for a slightly sweeter, lighter take on the classic julep. It’s a smooth and flavorful way to enjoy this Derby staple.
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13
Two glasses of red iced tea garnished with lemon slices on a white background.
Woodford Reserve Spire Cocktail
The Woodford Reserve Spire is a bright and fruity bourbon cocktail with a smoky depth. It’s an easy sipper that’s perfect for Derby Day or summer gatherings.
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14
The storied Seelbach Bourbon Champagne Cocktail is a glitzy cocktail worthy of celebration! The marriage of bourbon whiskey, champagne, orange and cocktail bitters is a festive way to toast both the holidays and the new year. Cheers! (via feastandwest.com)
Seelbach Bourbon Champagne Cocktail
The Seelbach Bourbon Champagne Cocktail blends bourbon with bubbly for a festive, Prohibition-era drink. A touch of orange and bitters adds extra flair.
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15
a non-alcoholic mint julep in a silver cup with a bottle of zero-proof whiskey
Virgin Mint Julep
The Virgin Mint Julep is a non-alcoholic take on the Derby classic, made with a zero-proof whiskey alternative. It’s a refreshing and flavorful option for any guest.
GET THE RECIPE
16
Savor the end of summer with a Ginger Peach Bourbon Smash. Muddle together an easy ginger simple syrup, juicy peaches, warm citrus and oaky bourbon, and toast to the last days of warm weather. (via feastandwest.com)
Whiskey Smash
The Whiskey Smash combines bourbon, peaches, citrus, and a honey ginger simple syrup for a fruity and bold cocktail. It’s a delightful way to toast the Derby.
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17
A twist on the classic Kentucky cocktail, the Chocolate Mint Julep is a sweet sipper for spring and summer. Made with a chocolate mint-infused syrup, oaky bourbon and a heap of crushed ice, this drink is perfect for horse-race-watching and summer cocktail parties. (via feastandwest.com)
Chocolate Mint Julep
The Chocolate Mint Julep adds a twist to the classic by using chocolate mint-infused syrup. It’s a fun and flavorful take on a Derby tradition.
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18
A glass with gold starbursts garnished with a lemon peel sits beside a honey dripper covered in honey. Half a lemon and a teal dishtowel sit in the background
Honey Lemon Whiskey Sour
The Honey Lemon Whiskey Sour is a smooth and citrusy take on the classic whiskey sour. With notes of honey and lemon, it tastes like a Southern lemonade with a kick.
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19
A glass of Old Fashioned cocktail with an orange peel and cherry garnish, placed on a wooden coaster. A decorative stirrer is in the glass. A small bowl of cherries is nearby.
Classic Old-Fashioned Cocktail
The Classic Old-Fashioned is a timeless bourbon cocktail that’s perfect for the Kentucky Derby. Strong, smooth, and slightly sweet, it’s a true classic.
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20
A textured glass filled with an orange beverage, garnished with a sprig of thyme. Two similar glasses are blurred in the background.
Honey Old-Fashioned
The Honey Old-Fashioned is a softer, floral version of the traditional old-fashioned. Honey adds a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with bourbon.
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21
A tall glass of iced tea with a slice of lemon on the rim and mint leaves garnish, placed on a white surface.
Spiked Arnold Palmer (John Daly Drink)
The Spiked Arnold Palmer, also known as a John Daly, is a boozy mix of iced tea, lemonade, and vodka. It’s a refreshing and easy-to-make drink for any occasion.
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22
A John Collins cocktail sits next to gold bowls of cherries and orange slices.
John Collins Drink
The John Collins is a light and bubbly whiskey cocktail, similar to the gin-based Tom Collins. With citrus and soda, it’s a refreshing choice for race day.
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23
a brown derby drink with a grapefruit wedge garnish
Brown Derby Cocktail
The Brown Derby Cocktail is a classic bourbon drink with grapefruit juice and honey. It’s a bright and citrusy cocktail with Old Hollywood charm.
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24
Plastic cups filled with yellow gelatin, each topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a mint leaf, arranged on a decorative tray.
spicysouthernkitchen.com
Mint Julep Jello Shots
Mint Julep Jello Shots are just the thing to get your Kentucky Derby parties started. They have all the flavors of a Mint Julep: bourbon, mint, and sugar, plus a dollop of mint-flavored whipped cream
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25
A cocktail in a glass with a diamond pattern, garnished with mint and a lemon slice, on a wooden bar with blurred lights in the background.
www.gastronomblog.com
Peach Mint Julep Cocktail
The Peach Mint Julep combines sweet peaches with bourbon for a fresh take on the Derby classic. It’s a smooth and summery twist on the traditional julep.
Get the Recipe
26
A glass of lemonade with ice and a floral-patterned straw, next to a wooden reamer and a half-squeezed lemon on a cutting board. Another glass and pitcher are in the background.
www.stetted.com
Vanilla Lemonade
Vanilla Lemonade is a non-alcoholic Derby drink with floral notes and homemade vanilla bean syrup. It’s a refreshing and sweet option for any party.
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27
Two glasses of red fruit punch with ice, garnished with fresh mint leaves and watermelon wedges, placed on a light cloth.
www.theculinarycompass.com
Watermelon Mint Julep
The Watermelon Mint Julep puts a fruity, summer twist on the classic bourbon cocktail. Fresh watermelon adds a natural sweetness that pairs well with whiskey.
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28
Glass of crushed ice drink garnished with a sprig of mint and a slice of ginger on a dark surface.
www.cakenknife.com
Sparkling Ginger Mint Julep
The Sparkling Ginger Mint Julep adds ginger syrup and seltzer to the traditional julep for a fizzy kick. It’s a refreshing, slightly spicy take on the Derby favorite.
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29
Three mason jars filled with a light pink beverage garnished with mint leaves are placed on a wooden table. A white cloth is partially visible on the left.
nutmegnanny.com
Frozen Mint Julep
The Frozen Mint Julep is an icy, boozy slushie made with bourbon and fresh mint. It’s a cool and refreshing way to enjoy the classic Derby cocktail.
GET THE RECIPE

About Susannah

Susannah Brinkley Henry is the founder of Feast + West, a cocktail blog featuring creative, budget-friendly drinks and hosting ideas. A graphic designer with bartending school training, she shares cocktails, mocktails, appetizers and desserts for easy, stylish entertaining. Her work has been featured by Southern Living, Buzzfeed, The Huffington Post and Mashable, and she was a finalist in the Saveur Blog Awards. Susannah is also a publisher on MSN and has appeared on local news segments sharing seasonal drinks. She lives in Charlotte, N.C., where she brings Southern charm and global inspiration to every pour. Read more.

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Comments

  1. Linda says

    What a treat! I love learning all about cocktails and this one is my new favorite cocktail. So good especially when paired with delicious appetizers

    Reply

  5. Mandy Applegate says

    With so many to choose from I hardly know where to start – I’m just going to have to work my way through the list!

    Reply

  8. Patrice says

    That peach mint julep is so good. I’ll have to try a few more of these. Thanks for sharing all this info and all the fun recipes.

    Reply

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