The Belmont Stakes
Tomorrow is the last of the Triple Crown races this year, and while I’m not much of a horseracing fan I am a big fan of racing-inspired cocktails. While it may not be as famous a collaboration as the Kentucky Derby/Mint Julep, the Belmont Stakes actually has an official Dale DeGroff-created cocktail that debuted in 1998. Before that, they had a different official cocktail called the White Carnation, which I believe was meant to match the race’s official flower and trophy. Dale’s cocktail sounds much better to me, but I believe I am honor-bound to attempt both tomorrow even if I never actually watch the race itself! Or maybe especially then.
BELMONT BREEZE
· 1 1/2 oz. Makers Mark Bourbon
· 1/2 oz. Dry Sack Sherry
· 1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice
· 1/2 oz. simple syrup
· Splash fresh orange juice
· Splash cranberry juice
· 5 mint leaves
· 1 mint sprig
· 1 orange zest
Assemble the first six ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with orange peel and mint sprig.
Source: Dale DeGroff
THE WHITE CARNATION
· 2 oz. Vodka
· 1/2 oz. Peach Schnapps
· 2 oz. Orange Juice
· Soda
· Cream
Stir liquors and soda together and pour over ice in a highball glass. Splash cream over top then garnish with an orange slice.
Source: Webtender
Finally, I’m not sure this one has anything to do with the race, but if you want a third option here is another cocktail that technically has “Belmont” in its name:
155 BELMONT
· 1 shot Dark rum
· 2 shots Light rum
· 1 shot Vodka
· 1 shot Orange juice
Blend with ice. Serve in a wine glass. Garnish with carrot.
Source: Webtender
