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    Home » Roundups

    15 Classic Kentucky Derby Cocktails

    Published: Mar 8, 2026 by bobbieblue

    17 shares
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    The Kentucky Derby is an event rich with tradition, from the parade of fashionable hats to the classic food and drinks that make the celebration complete. This collection of Kentucky Derby drink recipes brings together the perfect lineup of cocktails to enjoy while watching the race. From refreshing mint juleps to bold bourbon smashes and festive mules, these Derby-ready drinks are at the starting gate and ready to run.

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    Place your bets, raise a glass, and enjoy these Derby-worthy cocktails.

    Maker's Mark Mint Julep

    Photo Credit: Comfort Food And Drinks

    Follow this recipe to learn how to craft a perfect mint julep recipe with just the right amount of mint and sweetness.

    Get the recipe: Maker's Mark Mint Julep

    Chocolate Mule Kentucky Style With Crown Chocolate

    A serving of Chocolate Mule Kentucky. A bottle of Crown Royal Chocolate in the background.
    Photo Credit: Dinners Done Quick

    A twist on the classic mule, this Chocolate Mule Kentucky Style With Crown Chocolate uses a whiskey. This recipe uses the Crown Royal Chocolate Whiskey that adds a rich chocolate flavor that perfectly blends with the classic mule!

    Get the recipe: Chocolate Mule Kentucky Style With Crown Chocolate

    The PERFECT Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail

    Photo Credit: XOXO Bella

    This classic drink is made with a premium bourbon and a handful of other ingredients. This drink takes only a minute to make this delicious cocktail recipe.

    Get the recipe: The PERFECT Bourbon Old Fashioned Cocktail

    Peach Mint Julep: Whiskey Julep Cocktail With Crown Royal

    Top shot of a glass of Peach Mint Julep served with a slice of peach and a few pieces of mint leaves.
    Photo Credit: Dinners Done Quick

    This Peach Mint Julep adds a fruity twist to your classic Mint Julep. This version introduces the sweet flavor of peach using the Crown Royal Peach Whiskey that blends perfectly with the fresh mint flavor and crushed ice. Cool, refreshing drink perfect for warm weather!

    Get the recipe: Peach Mint Julep: Whiskey Julep Cocktail With Crown Royal

    Crown Peach Mule: Kentucky Style Mule With Whiskey

    Two servings of Kentucky style Crown Peach Mule topped with slices of peaches and few mint leaves,
    Photo Credit: Dinners Done Quick

    This Crown Peach Mule features a fruity flavor twist that blends perfectly with ginger beer. This recipe uses the Crown Royal Peach Flavor whiskey instead of the usual bourbon that treats you to a refreshing, slightly sweet, and lightly spicy drink!

    Get the recipe: Crown Peach Mule: Kentucky Style Mule With Whiskey

    Peach Mint Julep

    A glass of Peach Mint Julep with a few pieces of mint leaves and a bottle of Crown Royal Peach on the background, and a small bucket of ice.
    Photo Credit: TropRockin.com

    If you're looking for a drink to enjoy this weekend with friends, might as well make some of this Peach Mint Julep. This recipe uses the Crown Royal Peach-flavored whiskey for that sweet, fruity twist that perfectly combines with the fresh mint, a simple syrup, and a glass filled with ice. For that perfect summer drink!

    Get the recipe: Peach Mint Julep

    Blackberry Kentucky Mule: Royal Mule With Crown Whiskey

    Two servings of Blackberry Kentucky Mule topped with a slice of lime and a few pieces of blackberries.
    Photo Credit: Dinners Done Quick

    This recipe uses the Crown Royal Blackberry Whiskey to add a fruity flavor twist to the classic mule cocktail. This version of this drink introduces us to a smooth, rich base that blends perfectly with the fresh blackberry flavor!

    Get the recipe: Blackberry Kentucky Mule: Royal Mule With Crown Whiskey

    Non-Alcoholic Mint Julep

    A glass of Non-Alcoholic Mint Julep.
    Photo Credit: The Urben Life

    This refreshing mocktail is inspired by the classic Mint Julep, which is usually enjoyed with whiskey. This Mint Julep recipe features a non-alcoholic version, a perfectly refreshing drink to enjoy on warm summer days!

    Get the recipe: Non-Alcoholic Mint Julep

    Classic Bourbon Smash

    Photo Credit: The Urben Life

    A bright, refreshing whiskey cocktail that is made with bourbon, fresh lemon, mint, and a simple sugar syrup. Easy to make and perfect for sipping during the warmer seasons!

    Get the recipe: Classic Bourbon Smash

    Mint Julep Punch

    Photo Credit: Pizzazzerie

    This twist on the classic mint julep has fruity citrus added for a drink you can sip all day while enjoying the festivities before the Kentucky Derby.

    Get the recipe: Mint Julep Punch

    Easy Frozen Mint Julep Slushie

    Photo Credit: XOXO Bella

    This frozen slushie version of a mint julep is the perfect way to cool down on derby day. Made with mint simple syrup, bourbon and ice this drink is quick and easy to make and makes several servings for a small gathering.

    Get the recipe: Easy Frozen Mint Julep Slushie

    Raspberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail

    Photo Credit: XOXO Bella

    This refreshing raspberry bourbon smash cocktail is made with fresh raspberries and Chambord, a raspberry liqueur. It is a perfect spring drink to serve on Derby Day.

    Get the recipe: Raspberry Bourbon Smash Cocktail

    The Best Mint Julep Recipe

    Photo Credit: The G&M Kitchen

    Make your own mint simple syrup for these amazing mint juleps. They are the iconic drink served at the Kentucky Derby since the early 1800's.

    Get the recipe: The Best Mint Julep Recipe

    Kentucky Buck Cocktail

    Photo Credit: Sidewalk Shoes

    This cocktail is made with ginger beer and whisky for a refreshing beverage. The muddled strawberries add a light fruity flavor.

    Get the recipe: Kentucky Buck Cocktail

    Rosemary Brown Derby (Bourbon and Grapefruit Cocktail)

    Photo Credit: The Forked Spoon

    This Rosemary Brown Derby is made with fresh grapefruit juice, bourbon and rosemary for a delightful cocktail that is perfect for sipping on while watching the Derby festivities!

    Get the recipe: Rosemary Brown Derby (Bourbon and Grapefruit Cocktail)

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    Hi, I'm Bobbie! Welcome to Blue's Best Life. I'm a self-taught cook that loves to cook wholesome meals while still enjoying a truly decadent dessert, because there is always room for a little something sweet!

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