Make These Kentucky Derby Cocktails If You're Tired of Mint Juleps
The Kentucky Derby is known for a few things—horses, out-of-this-world headwear, and, you guessed it, mint juleps. The derby’s signature cocktail may seem like a newfangled recipe, but this timeless drink has actually been served at the historic race since the 1930s.
Even though mint juleps are a popular pick for those attending the races (or even for those just following along from home), sometimes you want to branch out. If you’re looking for a Kentucky Derby cocktail that is more out of the box, you’re in the right place. From Bourbon Derby punch to innovative whiskey sours, here are some fun and festive drinks that stray away from the traditional mint julep. Enjoy!
Parsley Gin Julep
If you like the idea of a mint julep but aren’t a huge fan of mint, switch it out for fresh parsley. This recipe calls for chilled club soda, but feel free to experiment with any mixer you’d like.
Get the recipe from Delish.
Gold Rush Cocktail
Reminiscent of a whiskey sour, this lip-puckering drink is made with water, honey, fresh lemon juice, and bourbon whiskey.
Get the recipe from Delish.
Margarita
You can never go wrong with an old-fashioned margarita. This one calls for Blanco tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, and coarse sea salt for serving. Make sure to garnish with sliced lime along the rim.
Get the recipe from Delish.
Bourbon Derby Punch
Make a large batch of this Bourbon Derby Punch if you plan on having friends or family over to watch the race. Extra points if you prep it in a large crystal bowl and serve it in colorful glasses.
Get the recipe from Country Living.
Kentucky Oaks Blush Lily
The Kentucky Oaks Blush Lily cocktail is the official drink of the Kentucky Oaks race that takes place a day before the Kentucky Derby, but who says you can’t enjoy it during the Kentucky Derby, too? Both refreshing and tasty, this drink is made using cranberry juice, vodka, lime juice, triple sec, and crushed ice.
Get the recipe from Southern Living.
Champagne Punch
You can never go wrong with a champagne punch. This one uses dry gin, simple syrup, and fresh lemon juice to get its undeniably good taste.
Get the recipe from Southern Living.
Jockey Club
We love a themed cocktail. The Jockey Club drink, made with gin, lemon juice, a dash of Angostura Bitters, and a splash of crème de cacao, is precisely what your party’s cocktail menu needs.
Get the recipe from Delish.
Ginger Lime Whiskey Sour
A perfect anytime drink, this cocktail uses a flavorful ginger-infused simple syrup to get its delicious taste. Top with some candied ginger or lime wedges for the full effect.
Get the recipe for Ginger Lime Whiskey Sour from Delish.
Sweet Tea Mint Julep
If you still want to serve mint juleps but want something more unexpected, try this sweet tea mint julep cocktail recipe. It requires only 10 minutes of prep and includes flavorful ingredients, including herbal tea, lemon, and fresh mint.
Get the recipe for from Southern Living.
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