Can I make a Belmont Jewel in advance for a party?

Absolutely! You can batch the bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice together in a pitcher and chill it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before serving over ice, and add garnishes individually to each glass.

What type of bourbon works best in this cocktail?

A smooth, slightly sweet bourbon works best—think of brands like Maker's Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Woodford Reserve. Avoid overly spicy or high-proof bourbons which may overpower the drink's balance.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Belmont Jewel?

Yes! Simply omit the bourbon and use more lemonade and pomegranate juice. You can add a splash of sparkling water or ginger ale for extra fizz and flavor.

Can I substitute pomegranate juice with another fruit juice?

While pomegranate juice gives the drink its signature color and tartness, you could try cranberry juice for a slightly different but still delicious result. Just keep in mind the flavor will change a bit.

Belmont Jewel

Name: Belmont Jewel
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 1.5 oz Bourbon; 2 oz Lemonade; 1 oz Pomegranate juice; 1 cup Ice

The Belmont Jewel is a vibrant, refreshing cocktail that perfectly embodies the spirit of summer racing. With its ruby hue and crisp, citrusy flavors, this drink brings together bourbon, pomegranate, and lemonade for a crowd-pleasing sipper that's as easy to enjoy as it is to make. Whether you're celebrating the Belmont Stakes or just want a lively drink, the Belmont Jewel is a true winner in any glass.

5 minutesEasy1 serving

Featured

Ingredients

1 serving

Bourbon
45 ml (1.5 oz)
Choose your favorite bourbon—something smooth and not too spicy.
Lemonade
60 ml (2 oz)
Freshly made or high-quality store-bought for best flavor.
Pomegranate juice
30 ml (1 oz)
100% pomegranate juice for rich color and tartness.
Ice
1 cup
For shaking and serving.

Tools Needed

Cocktail shaker
Jigger
Strainer
Rocks glass
Bar spoon (optional)

Instructions

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice to the shaker.
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until well chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with a lemon wedge and a few pomegranate seeds, if desired.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

It's incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients.
The blend of bourbon, pomegranate, and lemonade is both refreshing and flavorful.
Its vibrant color makes it a showstopper at parties and gatherings.
Perfect for warm-weather sipping or celebrating big events.
Balances sweet and tart flavors for a crowd-pleasing taste.

History & Origin

The Belmont Jewel was introduced in 2011 as the official cocktail of the Belmont Stakes, the third jewel in horse racing's Triple Crown. Prior to this, the Belmont Breeze held the title, but the Jewel was created to be simpler, more accessible, and to better reflect the lively spirit of the event. Its name is a playful nod to the prestigious 'jewel' status of the Belmont Stakes in the world of racing. Today, it's enjoyed by race fans and cocktail enthusiasts alike for its easy-drinking and refreshing profile.

Garnish

A lemon wedge and a few pomegranate seeds—these add a pop of color and a hint of citrus aroma, making the drink as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Nutrition Info

Approximately 160 calories per serving. Contains about 0g fat, 15g carbohydrates (primarily from lemonade and pomegranate juice), and 0g protein. Actual values may vary depending on your choice of bourbon and juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

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