If you are sipping cocktails today for Cinco de Mayo, or simply because spring has sprung, and you are in the mood for a happy hour cocktail capturing the spirit of the Derby over the weekend – here is a twist on the traditional, delicious with any spirit, though we tried the first one with Bourbon and second with Gin…we could have easily substituted tequila as well, as the floral notes would marry well with the herbs and berries.  For types – we opted for a 1792 Ridgemont Reserve Kentuky Bourbon, then Notet’s Dry Gin…I would go for a clean silver tequila if going that direction, like Milagro Silver or Herradura Blanco.

Recipe:

Strawberry Mint and Ginger Juleps
Ingredients:
3 ounces Bourbon…or Gin…or Tequila
3 strawberries, stem removed and sliced
5 mint leaves, torn plus a few additional for garnish
Juice of 1/2 lemon (limes are just too hard to get these days)
Ginger Ale

Preparation:  Add strawberries to a cocktail shaker and muddle until broken down completely.  Add the mint and lemon juice, and continue to muddle gently to help release the juices.  Add the spirit of choice with ice and shake until very cold.  Pour into two rocks glasses, dividing in half.  Top with Ginger Ale and stir to combine.  Garnish with a mint sprig.