• Bourbon
  60 ml (2 oz)

  Choose a smooth, mid-range bourbon for best results
• Sweet Vermouth
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  Adds depth and a touch of sweetness
• Orange Curaçao
  15 ml (0.5 oz)

  A classic orange liqueur; Cointreau works well
• Angostura Bitters
  2 dashes

  Brings out herbal and spice notes
• Fresh mint sprig
  1 sprig

  For garnish and aroma

• Mixing glass
• Bar spoon
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Chilled coupe or cocktail glass

1. 1

   Fill a mixing glass with ice.

2. 2

   Pour in the bourbon, sweet vermouth, orange curaçao, and bitters.

3. 3

   Stir well for about 20 seconds to chill and dilute the drink slightly.

4. 4

   Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.

5. 5

   Garnish with a fresh mint sprig, gently slapped to release its aroma.

• Perfectly balanced blend of bourbon and citrus liqueur
• Refreshing yet spirit-forward
• Simple, easy-to-find ingredients
• A nod to classic Americana and the Kentucky Derby
• Elegant presentation with aromatic mint garnish

The Derby cocktail has a few different variations, but the most enduring version comes from the 1940s. It was named in honor of the famous Kentucky Derby, the iconic horse race that epitomizes Southern elegance and celebration. The original recipe first appeared in the 1947 'Esquire’s Handbook for Hosts,' where it was praised for its simplicity and balance. While there are other cocktails named Derby (some with gin, some with bourbon), this bourbon-based rendition has become the favorite among classic cocktail aficionados, especially during Derby season.