Recipe Round-Up: Cinco de Derby

Every year, two of the best excuses to have a cocktail – the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo – fall within the same week, and sometimes on the same day. It’s a bit of a shame because it really forces you to choose between Mint Juleps and Margaritas. I thought I’d make the decision a bit easier by rounding up all of my favorite recipes for these two iconic cocktails.

Mint Julep

1. Mint Julep. This classic version of the Derby staple uses a mint syrup that makes it easy to batch – allowing you to enjoy the race.

Margarita

2. Margarita. I recently started making Margaritas at home again on a regular basis and I really forgot how utterly delicious they are. I recommend altering the recipe here to use 1/4 oz. agave nectar instead of the simple syrup.

Champagne Julep

3. Champagne Julep. This oh-so-classy Cognac julep is lengthened by a few ounces of sparkling wine.

Blood Orange Margarita

4. Blood Orange Margarita. Blood orange juice lends an absolutely stunning color to this cocktail without taking it too far from the flavor of a classic Margarita.

Pineapple Rum Julep

5. Pineapple Rum Julep. This was my Derby drink of choice last year. Using pineapple syrup and a quality aged rum instead of the typical bourbon puts a deliciously tropical spin on the classic.

Spiced Cranberry Margarita

6. Spiced Cranberry Margarita. I created this marg as an unexpected Thanksgiving cocktail, but it’s a great choice any time of year. Skip the spices in the cranberry syrup if you want something that tastes a bit more summery.

Basil Cranberry Julep

7. Basil Cranberry Julep. Speaking of cranberry syrup, save some for this unique mezcal-based julep. It’s my favorite Kentucky Derby/Cinco de Mayo crossover cocktail.

Grilled Pineapple Margarita

8. Grilled Pineapple Margarita. Grilling pineapple rings before muddling them into this margarita caramelizes them and adds a hint of smoke that pairs perfectly with a dash of mezcal.

Tea Thyme mocktail

9. Tea Thyme. For the non-drinkers, this mocktail made with black tea and peach is a perfect southern-inspired sipper for Derby watching.

Spicy Sandia watermelon mocktail

10. Spicy Sandia. Or if you’re in more of a margarita mood, this spicy watermelon mocktail should hit the spot!

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