The Belmont Stakes is one of the most prestigious horse races in the United States, forming the final leg of the Triple Crown series alongside the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. Held annually at Belmont Park in New York, it showcases top thoroughbred horses competing in a grueling 1.5-mile race. The Belmont Breeze cocktail, created specifically for the Belmont Stakes, complements the excitement of the event with its refreshing blend of bourbon, sherry, citrus juices, and cranberry, offering a delicious way to celebrate the race’s traditions and the arrival of summer.
This drink was created by Dale DeGroff in 1998 to act as the new official cocktail of the Belmont Stakes. I am sure you will enjoy it as much as we do.
Belmont Breeze Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 Oz Bourbon Whiskey
- 1/2 Oz Dry Sack Medium Dry Sherry
- 1/2 Oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 1/2 Oz Simple Syrup
- Splash of Orange Juice
- Splash of Cranberry Juice
- 5 Mint Leaves
- 1 Mint Sprig
- 1 Orange Zest
Instructions
- Place all of the ingredients into a cocktai shaker filled with ice and shake vigorously for 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with gresh mint and an orange peel. Enjoy!
Nutrition
🏇 Belmont Breeze Cocktail Tips & FAQ
Horse racing and tailgating go hand in hand, and nothing says Belmont Stakes quite like the Belmont Breeze. Whether you’re mixing it up at home, serving it trackside, or pouring pitchers for a parking lot party, here’s everything you need to know about this refreshing cocktail.
What is in a Belmont Breeze?
The Belmont Breeze is a fruity, refreshing cocktail that typically includes bourbon, sherry, cranberry juice, orange juice, and lemon-lime soda or lemon juice, often garnished with mint. For a tailgate twist, make it in a large pitcher so guests can easily refill their cups between races.
What is the official drink of the Belmont race?
The official drink of the Belmont Stakes has changed over the years, but the Belmont Breeze was introduced in 1998 as the signature cocktail, replacing the previous official Belmont drink, the White Carnation. Today, variations of the drink are still popular at tailgates and watch parties, thanks to its easy-drinking, citrusy flavor.
What is the history of the Belmont Breeze?
Created by bartender Dale DeGroff in the late 1990s, the Belmont Breeze was designed to be lighter and more approachable than previous Belmont cocktails. Its fruity flavor and crowd-friendly recipe quickly made it a fan favorite for both race day celebrations and tailgating spreads.
What to serve at a Belmont Stakes party?
A Belmont Stakes party calls for festive foods that are easy to enjoy while watching the races. Think sliders, finger sandwiches, cheese boards, and plenty of fresh fruit to complement cocktails like the Belmont Breeze. For a true tailgate experience, add portable favorites like BBQ skewers or dips that guests can snack on between heats.
The Belmont Breeze may be the official cocktail of the Belmont Stakes, but it’s also a perfect drink for tailgating thanks to its refreshing mix of bourbon and citrus. Whether you stick to tradition or mix up your own version, it’s a surefire way to keep spirits high on race day.
