Party Kentucky Derby-Style With Race-Inspired Cocktails

If you've always wanted to attend the Kentucky Derby (we're talking fancy hats and all) but won't find yourself anywhere near Churchill Downs this Saturday, don't fret, we're dialed into some amazing mixology that will leave you feeling as though you're drinking your mint julep right alongside all of the other revelers. From the traditional cocktail to a new spin on an old favorite, scare up one of these drinks for the perfect pretend Saturday at the races.

Maker's Mark® Mint Julep

1-1/2 parts Maker's Mark® Bourbon

Fresh mint

2 tablespoons simple syrup* muddled with mint

Splash of distilled water

Powdered sugar

Mix together simple syrup* muddled with mint, Maker's Mark® Bourbon and distilled water. Fill glass with crushed ice and pour mixture over top. Sprinkle top of ice with powdered sugar. Garnish with a mint sprig.

*Simple syrup

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup distilled water

For the Wine Lover:

14 Hands Winery's Twist on the Mint Julep

For a light and refreshing twist on the traditional Mint Julep, muddle mint in the bottom of glass or pitcher, fill the container halfway with ice, and then add one part 14 Hands Pinot Gris or Hot to Trot White Blend and one part ginger ale. Garnish with a mint sprig and enjoy.

• 1 1/2 oz of vodka

• 1 oz of elderflower liqueur

• 3/4 oz of lime juice

• 1/4 oz of agave nectar

• ¼ oz club soda

• ¼ oz hibiscus elixir

Directions: Muddle four grapes in a shaker, add the rest of ingredients except for the hibiscus elixir and soda. Shake with ice, pour in a rock glass and the remaining grapes. Add one dash of hibiscus elixir in the top of the cocktail and one splash of soda topped with one green grape as a garnish.