This post is sponsored by Woodford Reserve. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ahh you guys, it’s Derby Wee! I can hardly contain myself. I’m so excited. Last year was tough on so many fronts but not having the little slice of joy that is the Kentucky Derby was such a bummer.
But we’re not dwelling in the past, we’re getting jazzed for our future celebrations. And whether you’re going to the track or celebrating at home – it’s such an amazing chance to celebrate what makes Louisville, and Kentucky as a whole, so special.
And we all know that one of the things that makes our Bluegrass state so special is bourbon. Legit, my absolute favorite part of Derby Day is singing along to ‘My Old Kentucky Home’ with a mint julep in my hands. But there is a new Derby cocktail in town – The Woodford Spire – and after trying it a couple years ago at the track, it may be my new favorite.
Woodford Reserve is the presenting sponsor of the Kentucky Derby and accordingly created their own signature cocktail for the event to perfectly complement the other two signature drinks – the Finlandia Oaks Lily and the Old Forester Mint Julep.
The Woodford Spire is served in the prettiest copper colored julep cup and is the ideal cocktail to sip on while watching the races. It’s a really nice balance of sweet and tart, complementing the rich flavor of Woodford Reserve. If you’re not a regular bourbon drinker, this is a great cocktail to try since it’s less spirit-forward than some other bourbon cocktails.
The best part is that it’s made up of ingredients you can easily find at the grocery store. Honestly, you probably have everything you need to make it already in your bar or fridge. You can also easily make this as a batch cocktail and have it ready to pour for guests.
If you’re hosting this weekend, order all your Derby at Home party necessities (i.e. – Woodford Reserve) on Drizly and take $5 off your first order with code WRDerby. Courtesy of Drizly. 21+. New users only. Void where prohibited.
Woodford Spire
1.5 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon
2 oz Lemonade
1 oz Cranberry Juice
Add all ingredients into a mixing glass and stir. Pour over crushed ice and garnish with a lemon twist.
Hot tip: The Spire is extra delicious when served over crushed ice. You can pick up a bag from a local fast food spot (you’d be surprised but they will sell you a bag) or head up to the gas station before your party and fill up a handful of the giant 64 oz cups. It’s a very simple way to elevate your bar situation and all your cocktails.
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