A Nutmegger’s Guide to Kentucky (Conn-tucky) Derby Cocktails

Khalid Williams April 26, 2024

Photo bottom left courtesy of Winter Caplanson

Being from Connecticut means that you’re in the lucky position of having access to some of the best indulgences available- legendary lobster, outstanding oysters, Industry leading IPAS, and…wonderful bourbon whiskey?

Oh yes. Thanks to some amazing CT producers, you have the pride of Kentucky Spirits at your fingertips, and this primer is all you need to enjoy the derby in style and spirit.

A solid Kentucky Derby experience MUST contain the following (for those who choose to indulge in alcohol, of course):

Over the top hat
Good bourbon
Mint julep cocktail

The Mint Julep is mandatory. After this one, you’ll never have to be told again and will request them yourself. This is a drink that I suggest everyone know how to prepare themselves.

First things first, let’s understand what bourbon whiskey is.

Whiskey- a distilled spirit distilled primarily from cereal grains-corn, rye, wheat, and barley are the major players.

Bourbon whiskey-a distilled spirit that must be made from 51% corn, at least 80 proof, and aged for a minimum of two years in new, charred American oak barrels. While originating in Bourbon County, Kentucky, bourbon can be produced anywhere in the United States.

ALL BOURBON IS WHISKEY. ALL WHISKEY IS NOT BOURBON.

It seems everyone has heard of this lovely tipple, but not enough people have made their own. Let me tell you a secret-it is one of the easiest drinks in the world to make, and you can make one that honors Connecticut’s Cocktail Culture (its a secret club that exists in my mind. Please join today!)

The Conntucky Derby Mint Julep

INGREDIENTS

Litchfield Batcher’s Straight Bourbon
Simple Syrup*
Mint (a lot)
Stirrer (either a proper bar or a chopstick will do just fine.)
Rocks Glass or Julep Cup**
Muddler
Crushed Ice

DIRECTIONS

*I like y’all. I want to be friends, but if you buy simple syrup, my feelings will be hurt. Don’t do it. Seriously. Do not. Support your local store by letting me know who sells it in Connecticut, because I will buy it, dispose of it and make them promise to not carry it anymore. You can make it yourself, and it won’t contain Sodium Benzoate. Unless you enjoy ingredients that require a hazmat suit, MAKE YOUR SIMPLE SYRUP AT HOME!!

In your glass/julep cup, place 8 mint leaves

Add 1/2 ounce simple syrup, or more to taste and gently (!!) muddle them together. Don’t bust the mint. Coax the oils from it.

Add two ounces Litchfield Batcher’s Bourbon and pack the glass with crushed ice.

Top with more crushed ice to form an ice dome (use your very clean hands. Don’t use a glove. The drink will taste like Eau du Nitrile)

Take a majestic sprig of mint, slap it against the back of your hand, and tuck in the outer edge of the ice dome.

Add a dash of Angostura bitters (optional and a newer addition to this classic.)

I would like to add that after much searching, I found that not enough places that offer craft spirits also sell bar tools.

Worldwide Wine and Spirits in Southington has bar kits containing muddlers, and they deserve your attention.

If you're seeking something a bit lighter, try this out: