Kentucky Derby cocktails that taste like victory

The month of May brings with it several milestones: Memorial Day weekend, kids getting out of school, Mother's Day — but for many folks in the Jackson metro, it means Seersucker and Sombreros. The Phoenix Club of Jackson's annual party (May 7 this year) benefits Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Mississippi while celebrating the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo in one fell swoop. To prepare our palates for the shindig, we decided to ask club officers Will Janoush and Matt Thiel, and Janoush's wife, Andrea, to pour us a couple of Derbyesque drinks.

Below you'll find three recipes: a unique take on the mint julep, from The Apothecary at Brent's Drugs; the Kentucky Mule, courtesy of Table 100; and the Break Maiden, a brand-new drink that Parlor Market bartender Colton Woodward created especially for us. ("Break maiden" is a term for a rider or horse winning the first race of its career.) These concoctions are tasty, refreshing, and sure to liven up your next spring party.

Apothecary Julep

Courtesy of The Apothecary at Brent’s Drugs

2 oz Flor de Caña Gran Reserva 7 rum

½ oz Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum

1 barspoon orange marmalade

7-8 mint leaves

Sprinkle of powdered sugar

Crushed ice

Stir ingredients with ice to release mint oil. Strain and pour contents over crushed ice in julep cup. Garnish with mint sprig dusted with powdered sugar.

Break Maiden

Courtesy of Parlor Market

2 oz Kentucky bourbon

¾ oz fresh lemon juice

½ oz Domaine de Canton ginger liqueur

Ice (optional)

Pour ingredients into glass and stir. Can be served over ice if desired.

Kentucky Mule

Courtesy of Table 100

1.5 oz Four Roses yellow label bourbon

3 oz Barritt’s Ginger Beer

1 wedge fresh lime

Ice

Fill cup or mug with ice. Add bourbon. Top with ginger beer. Squeeze lime and drop into drink.

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