7 Race Day Cocktails for the Kentucky Derby

The Derby isn’t the only leg of the Triple Crown with a signature drink. Watch the horses run with a cocktail tailored for each event. You’ll have an instant party as synonymous with Derby Day as distinctive hats.

Classic Mint Julep

Mint juleps are the quintessential Southern cocktail. All you need for this classic version is fresh mint, mint simple syrup, and bourbon. Leftover simple syrup keeps refrigerated about one week and perfectly sweetens iced tea. See our tips and techniques for stirring up a mint julep.

Recipe: Classic Mint Julep

Step-by-Step Video: Make a Classic Mint Julep

Bourbon Smash

Add flair to your cocktail party with the Bourbon Smash: crushed ice and bourbon combined with the sweetness of raspberries and the fresh flavor of mint.

Recipe: Bourbon Smash

Black-eyed Susan

This cocktail’s name is taken from the flowers used to make the blanket that drapes the winning horse at the Preakness in Baltimore, Maryland. Made with orange and pineapple juice, vodka, light rum, and orange liqueur, it’s a Plimlico winner in our book too.

Recipe: Black-eyed Susan Cocktail

Bourbon Cider Sour

Looking for something impressive yet easy to mix up for your party? Simply stir together four ingredients: bourbon, apple cider, orange juice and sugar, then serve over ice. Garnish with thin apple slices for an elegant finish.

Recipe: Bourbon Cider Sour

Long Island Iced Tea

At the Belmont Stakes it’s Long Island Iced Tea. Serve this stiff drink in a martini glass to encourage sipping and get in the New York racing mood.

Recipe: Long Island Iced Tea

Slushy Whiskey Sours

Try a refreshing spin on a classic mixed drink featuring frozen orange juice, limeade and lemonade.

Recipe: Slushy Whiskey Sours

Moonshine-Cherry Blush

Basil-Lemon Moonshine is great by itself on the rocks, but our Moonshine-Cherry Blush recipe will certainly be difficult to pass up.

Recipe: Moonshine-Cherry Blush

Base Recipe: Basil-Lemon Moonshine

This article originally appeared on Southern Living.