Derby (cocktail)

Derby (cocktail)

The Derby is a classic cocktail that originated in the United States. It is a refreshing and citrusy drink that is perfect for summer gatherings and horse racing events. In this article, we will explore the history of the Derby cocktail, its ingredients, and how to make it.

History

The Derby cocktail was first created in the 19th century and gained popularity in the southern states, particularly Kentucky. It is closely associated with the Kentucky Derby, one of the most famous horse racing events in the world. The cocktail was often served at the Derby parties and became a staple of the event.

Ingredients

To make a Derby cocktail, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 ounces of bourbon whiskey
• 1/2 ounce of sweet vermouth
• 1/2 ounce of orange curaçao
• A dash of Angostura bitters
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Preparation

To prepare a Derby cocktail, follow these steps:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth, orange curaçao, and a dash of Angostura bitters.
3. Stir the mixture well until it is chilled.
4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Variations

There are several variations of the Derby cocktail that you can try:

• Frozen Derby: Blend the ingredients with crushed ice for a frozen and slushy version of the cocktail.
• Strawberry Derby: Add fresh strawberries to the mixture for a fruity twist.
• Ginger Derby: Replace the orange curaçao with ginger liqueur for a spicy kick.

See Also

• Kentucky Derby
• Cocktail
• Bourbon whiskey