While I’m not a bourbon girl, I do love a tradition and a reason to craft a cocktail. The Kentucky Derby is full of traditions trip to the Kentucky Derby is on my bucket list for certain. Beautiful people in beautiful clothes in a gorgeous setting…yes, definitely on my list.
I looked at several recipes for their traditional drink but nothing caught my eye until I saw recipes adding fruit and champagne to the mix! Every thing is better with bubbly, right? Here is my version of this traditional Kentucky cocktail.
- Crushed ice or small ice cubes (I crush mine my Vitamix)
- 1 pint of blackberries, pureed
- 1 bunch of mint leaves
- Simple syrup (recipe here, don't purchase the pre made stuff!)
- Good Kentucky bourbon
- Prosecco or other sparkling wine
- More mint sprigs and blackberries for garnish
- Tear six mint leaves in half and place in the bottom of a chilled silver julep cup.
- Top with 2 teaspoons of simple syrup.
- Add 3 tablespoons of blackberry purée.
- Muddle them together in the cup.
- Fill cup with ice.
- Add ½ to ¾ oz bourbon .
- Fill to top with champagne and stir well.
- Garnish with mint sprig and a blackberry.
Since you are probably like me and not headed to the Derby this year, I have partnered with Equest, a therapeutic riding center, to give one of my readers two tickets to their 35th Anniversary Gala in Dallas. Since 1981, Equest has cherished and groomed a very special herd of therapy horses to help children, adults and veterans overcome unique challenges – all through the human-horse connection. Equine-assisted activities and therapies can effectively treat over 100 physical, cognitive, social, learning disorders.
After you’ve watched “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” at home, you and a guest will enjoy southern gourmet dinner, craft cocktails including my Sparkling Blackberry Mint Julep, a Bourbon & Biscuits Bar, and wine lounge. Live and Silent Auctions will feature must have items and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Live music and speciality drinks will ring in the after-party along with some surprise guests.
This will be an unforgettable night under the stars benefitting an organization that has a heart as big as Texas.
SHOP THE POST
Tools you’ll need and what I’d wear to a Derby Party or the Gala!
Cheers!
xo
Alicia
Congratulations to Amy D for winning the tickets! I’ve emailed you about details.
Photos: Mary Summers-Hafner
Yes, you have to go to the Derby at least once! I will send you a pic of Kelsey — her outfit is adorable on her. Her shoes are Steve Madden knockoffs of the YSL ones you love! We will be cheering for Creator, owned by the Troutt’s. Love your creation of the Mint Julep, as I am not a bourbon lover (but I drink them at the Derby anyway)!!!???