The Triple Crown cocktails are here to stay for the summer!

The Triple Crown kicked off earlier this month with the Kentucky Derby. We watched Rich Strike and his jockey Sonny Leon overcome unimaginable odds to win the Run for the Roses. Known as the “The Most Exciting Two Minutes of Sports”, this year’s race did not disappoint and had everyone on the edge of their seat. With all the fanfare of derby season, we decided to whip up the official cocktails of the Triple Crown: The Mint Julep, The Black-Eyed Susan, and The Belmont Jewel.

Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. The Kentucky Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown, followed by the Preakness Stakes, and then the Belmont Stakes. The Mint Julep is just as symbolic of the Kentucky Derby as the Garland of Roses and Twin Spires. The combination of bourbon, simple syrup, and mint is simply perfect and incredibly easy to make.

The Mint Julep has a unique history and is a favorite cocktail in the south. The historic beverage came served in an ice-frosted silver julep cup. In the 19^th century South, it was popular to receive a set of Julep cups for any special occasion and most households had them. When I ventured out to Georgia to find my own, I came up empty-handed. I’ll add the Julep cups to my list of traditions I’d like to bring back.

Black-Eyed Susan

The Black-Eyed Susan is the official drink of the Preakness Stakes, which will take place this weekend. Although the name seems odd, this cocktail is named after the state flower of Maryland, which is used to make the celebratory blanket that’s draped over the winning horse at the Preakness Stakes.

There have been many alterations done to the Black-Eyed Susan over the years, but it is typically made with bourbon, vodka, and peach schnapps. It is one of those cocktails that sneaks up on you because it is delicious but strong! Out of all the Triple Crown Cocktails, the Black-Eyed Susan has the most variations out there. The one you like best is the best version for you!

Belmont Jewel

The Belmont Jewel is the official cocktail of the Belmont Stakes, the last leg of the Triple Crown. Many don’t know this, but the Belmont Stakes is the oldest of the three Triple Crown events with a rich history. “While the Kentucky Derby starts the quest and the Preakness can continue it, there is nothing else that can match the drama and electricity of June afternoons at Belmont Park with crowds of more than 90,000 turning out for a Triple Crown bid in a historic, 151-year-old race best known as “The Test of the Champion.”

Whether you’re watching from home or in person, make sure you have your Belmont Jewel in hand. Bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice create an excellent balance of sweet and sour. This recipe along with all the Triple Crown cocktails are great options for summer, not just derby season.

For an alternative or additional cocktail, we highly recommend our Kentucky Lemonade. It could stand in the rotation with the Triple Crown Cocktails or stand-alone. The bourbon, lemonade, mint, and ginger ale are a perfect combination. It’s refreshing and dangerously delicious!

The Maverick Observer is an online free-thinking publication interested in the happenings in our region. We launched in February 2020 to hold our politicians and businesses accountable. We hope to educate, inform, entertain, and infuse you with a sense of community.