Pete Wagner, Whiskey Ambassador to Brown-Forman for the State of Ohio, stopped by the Mix Studio Bar to discuss the Kentucky Derby with Michelle, which is happening this Saturday, September 5th. The Derby will be a little different this year. Due to the pandemic, the Derby was postponed for the 2nd time in the event’s history and will now be only viewable from spectators’ homes. No need to worry horse racing fans, Pete brought a little taste of Churchill Downs for you to create and enjoy in your living rooms. Pete teaches you how to make the 3 Official Cocktails of the Kentucky Derby. You can’t have the Derby without the traditional Mint Julep featuring Old Forester, simple syrup, and fresh mint leaves. For those that aren’t fans of mint, you can sip on the “Woodford Spires” featuring Woodford Reserve, fresh lemonade, & cranberry juice. Finally, if you don’t like bourbon, you can enjoy the Oaks Lily made with Finlandia Vodka, sweet and sour mix, & cranberry juice. Please remember to drink responsibly.
Old Forester Mint Julep
- Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- .5 oz Simple Syrup
- Fresh Mint
Take a generous sprig of fresh mint leaves and smack them a few times between the palms of your hands to express the natural oils. No need for muddling here! Wipe the mint around the inside of the cup. Add the simple syrup and then fill the cup with crushed ice. Finally, pour 1.5oz of the Old Forester over the ice, add a sprig of mint for garnish and enjoy!
Woodford Spire
- 1.5 oz Woodford Reserve
- 2oz Fresh-squeezed Lemonade
- .5oz Cranberry Juice
Pour the bourbon, lemonade, and cranberry juice over ice in a tall glass and stir. Add a lemon twist of garnish and enjoy!
Finlandia Oaks Lily
- 1.25oz Finlandia Vodka
- .25oz Triple Sec
- 3oz Cranberry Juice
- 1oz Sour Mix
In a rocks glass combine the vodka, triple sec, sour mix, and cranberry juice over ice. Garnish with a lemon twist and enjoy!