5 Cocktails for The Kentucky Derby

When you think of the Kentucky Derby, your mind probably goes immediately (or at least relatively soon) to Mint Juleps. One of my personal favorite drinks and consequently an easy way to annoy your bartender if you don’t live in Kentucky (and maybe if you do), the Mint Julep is the perfect combination of whiskey, sugar, mint, and ice, and is one of the best things to sip on outside during a hot summer day, especially if you happen to be watching some pretty fast-running horses.
While there’s bound to be a ton of Mint Juleps kicking around for the 2018 Derby, the race actually falls on Cinco de Mayo this year, which means you have a prime opportunity for creating a few interesting twists on the popular drink, especially if those twists happen to involve tequila. If you’re looking to put a new spin on your Derby festivities (or just your Saturday), here are a few cocktails worth giving a try.
Habanero Hell Fire
After being aged for about nine months, this well-balanced Reposado Tequila nicely stands up to the heat of the habanero in this spicy cocktail.
Ingredients:
2 parts Tres Agaves Reposado Tequila
2 parts Pear Puree
2 dashes Habanero Bitters
1 part Tres Agaves Agave Nectar
Seeds of 1 Jalapeno pepper, muddled
Directions: Rim glass with black pepper and salt. Then muddle seeds of Jalapeno pepper in pre-rimmed margarita glass. Pour remaining ingredients in glass, top off with ice and stir.