When it comes to celebrating the exhilarating atmosphere of the Belmont Stakes, one cannot underestimate the importance of a perfectly crafted cocktail.
If you are a fan of horse racing, you probably already know many facts about the Triple Crown races, and since Belmont Stakes is the third leg of the championship, it is also draped with tradition.
The Belmont Jewel cocktail is the traditional cocktail served on race day, and it is a refreshing drink that will make your taste buds scream for more.
So, we will go through the steps of making the iconic Belmont Jewel Cocktail, that you can serve on your Belmont Party at home. So, while you are browsing the 2023 Belmont Stakes Odds by TwinSpires you can sip on this one.
The History of the Belmont Jewel Cocktail
Picture this: it’s 1977, and the Belmont Stakes, like a thirsty racegoer, is searching for a cocktail worthy of its prestige.
The mission? To create a signature drink that can stand shoulder to shoulder with the legendary Mint Julep and the flamboyant Black-Eyed Susan. And so, in the midst of this spirited quest, the Belmont Jewel burst onto the scene, ready to capture the heart and taste buds of horse racing enthusiasts far and wide.
Like a boozy symphony, the creation of the Belmont Jewel was a collaborative masterpiece. Mixologists and event organizers joined forces, fueled by a shared vision of crafting a libation that could embody the very essence of the Belmont Stakes—elegance, excitement, and a dash of cheekiness.
Their alchemy led them to a magical combination of bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice, carefully chosen to create a harmonious medley of flavors—sweet, tart, and tantalizingly tangy.
How to Prepare the Perfect Belmont Jewel Cocktail
Ingredients
This liquid masterpiece demands a careful selection of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Bourbon
Bourbon is the soul of your cocktail. When choosing the bourbon, don’t settle for anything less than a quality gem. Seek out a bourbon that’s as smooth as silk and as rich as a daydream. Let it lay the foundation for a truly extraordinary drinking experience.
Lemonade
We’re not talking about any ordinary lemonade here. Opt for the best of the best of lemonades—freshly squeezed, high-quality goodness that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Prepare to be swept away by its zesty charms as it adds a refreshing twist to your libation.
Pomegranate Juice
Seek out the purest pomegranate juice you can find, for it holds the key to unlocking an authentic explosion of flavors in your cocktail. Prepare to be bewitched by its fruity allure.
Orange Zest
For the final touch, you’ll need an orange zest. Don’t underestimate the power of orange zest, for it holds the secret to elevating your cocktail to new heights. The aromatic oils hidden within those tiny curls of zest will infuse your creation with a citrusy punch that’s both refreshing and oh-so-sophisticated.
Mixing The Ingredients
Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to channel your inner mixologist and unveil the secrets to crafting the perfect Belmont Jewel cocktail. Follow these steps:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice: This step sets the stage for a chilling experience. The clinking of ice cubes will be music to your ears as you prepare to create your masterpiece.
- Pour in 2 ounces of bourbon: Let the rich aroma of bourbon intoxicate your senses as you pour it into the shaker. This is the backbone of your cocktail, providing the warmth and depth that will make it shine.
- Add 1 ½ ounces of lemonade: The lemonade adds a touch of sweetness and a burst of tanginess. As it combines with the bourbon, the symphony of flavors begins to unfold.
- Splash in 1 ½ ounces of pomegranate juice: This vibrant addition brings a lively burst of fruitiness, infusing your cocktail with a captivating allure.
- Shake it like you mean it: Put on your best cocktail-shaking performance and shake the mixture vigorously. This not only chills the drink but also allows the flavors to mingle and dance harmoniously.
Finishing Touches
The last step is to rim your glass with orange zest. Take a slice of orange zest and run it around the rim of your glass. The oils from the zest will leave a fragrant essence, creating a sensory experience with every sip.
Garnish with a twist of orange peel, or be creative in your own way. Cut a thin strip of orange peel and twist it into an elegant spiral. This visual masterpiece serves as the perfect finishing touch, hinting at the citrusy wonders within.
