I think we can all agree that horse racing isn’t just about the thrill of the race. It is also about the experience, the people you meet, the fashion, and of course, the cocktails.
When it comes to some of the biggest horse racing events in the world like the Breeders’ Cup, they’ve all created their own signature cocktails, which makes the event even more memorable. We can see the same thing in tennis, where we have events like the U.S. Open selling more than 550,000 Honey Deuce cocktails worth over $12.8 million.
Obviously, signature cocktails are a big attraction at sporting events, especially when we talk about horse racing.
So, with the Breeders’ Cup coming soon, I think it is time to learn more about the cocktails they offer, or maybe try to make them at home for your horse racing Breeders’ Cup watching event.
They are not very complicated, and you don’t have to be a pro cocktail master.
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Why Cocktails?
So, the question is, why cocktails? Well, horse racing events like the Breeders’ Cup have always been wrapped in a prestige cape and gave off that luxurious vibe. So, what’s the drink of choice when we talk about luxury and fine dining?
Not beer obviously (although it is an option). We can either go for wine, champagne, or cocktails. Cocktails are the best option when such events are trying to personalize the experience even more. Since horse racing events are all about tradition and brand awareness, they create their own signature cocktails served every year.
Imagine yourself whether at Del Mar or at home, browsing through the Breeders’ Cup odds and sipping on your favorite cocktail. It doesn’t get much better than that.
When it comes to the Breeders’ Cup, there are two signature cocktails – The Torrie Cup and Garland (recipes below). Yes, there are more to choose from, but these two are being tied to the event more closely than any other cocktail.
So, if you are throwing a Breeders’ Cup party, you should master these two first.
1. The Torrie Cup: A Champion’s Drink
One of the official cocktails of the Breeders’ Cup, the Torrie Cup, is all about boldness. Think of it as a tribute to the powerful, majestic horses charging across the finish line. This cocktail packs a punch with:
- 1 ½ parts Maker’s Mark Bourbon
- ¾ part Sweet Vermouth
- 1 ½ parts Orange Juice
- 2 parts Lemonade
Pro Tip: Make sure you measure your ingredients carefully because this drink thrives on balance! Too much bourbon (if that’s even a thing) and you might overpower those citrus notes.
This drink gives off a bright, refreshing vibe with a strong bourbon base, making it perfect for kicking off your Breeders’ Cup celebration.
2. The Garland: A Delicate Balance
On the softer side of the spectrum, we have The Garland, named after the iconic flower wreath draped over the victorious horses. This cocktail is lighter, offering a mix of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, honey-green tea, lemon, and a hint of triple sec. It’s a sophisticated choice for those who prefer their drinks on the more subtle side.
- 1 part Tito’s Handmade Vodka
- 2 parts Honey-Green Tea
- ½ part Triple Sec
- Fresh Lemon Juice
This one’s a delicate dance between sweet and tangy, making it a refreshing option as you watch the races unfold. And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in a sprig of mint for that extra fresh kick.
3. Maple Old Fashioned: Bourbon’s Autumnal Twist
For a drink that screams fall, the Maple Old Fashioned is your go-to. Kentucky’s iconic bourbon mixes with the sweetness of maple syrup to create a cozy cocktail that’s perfect for November weather.
- 2 oz Bourbon
- 1 tbsp Maple Syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Orange Peel for garnish
Serve it over ice, and you’ve got yourself a drink that’s as comforting as a warm blanket on a chilly Breeders’ Cup day. Ideal for those cool evenings when you’re watching the last few races from your backyard.
4. Hot Toddy: Warmth in a Glass
For those who enjoy watching the races outside—maybe huddled under blankets or around a fire—the Hot Toddy is perfect. Warming, smooth, and easy to make, it’s the cocktail equivalent of cheering for your horse on a crisp autumn evening.
- 1 ½ oz Bourbon
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
- Hot Water
Add some cloves and a cinnamon stick if you’re feeling fancy! It’s simple, but man, does it hit the spot when the temperature drops.
5. Ale 8 One: For the Non-Drinkers
No Breeders’ Cup party is complete without catering to the designated drivers or non-drinkers in the group. Enter Ale 8 One, a Kentucky staple that’s a mix of ginger ale and citrusy goodness. And if you’re feeling cheeky, you can even mix it with bourbon for a lighter cocktail option.
Hosting Tips: Make It a Party!
Throwing a Breeders’ Cup watch party? Here are a few tips to make sure your cocktails and your event go off without a hitch:
- Batch it out! Both the Torrie Cup and Garland are designed to be made in batches, making them perfect for parties. Just follow the ratios and multiply as needed.
- Have a backup plan. Don’t have all the ingredients? Don’t panic! Mark Tubridy, the mastermind behind these Breeders’ Cup cocktails, suggests using similar substitutes if you’re missing key ingredients like vermouth or triple sec. You can get creative with what’s in your pantry.
Garnishes matter. A simple garnish like an orange peel, mint sprig, or cinnamon stick can elevate your drink from good to “wow” with minimal effort