Dustin Gandoff
Bourbon and the Kentucky Derby: A Perfect Pairing
The History of Bourbon and the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is the most famous horse race in the world. It is held annually at the Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky and has been run since 1875. The race is steeped in tradition, including the serving of the classic mint julep cocktail. But another drink that has become synonymous with the Derby is bourbon.
Bourbon has been produced in Kentucky for more than 200 years, and the state is the birthplace of this iconic American spirit. The first commercial distillery in the United States was established in Kentucky in 1783, and the region’s limestone-rich water and fertile soil are ideal for growing the grains used in bourbon production.
The first recorded instance of bourbon being served at the Kentucky Derby was in 1938, when Churchill Downs began selling the mint julep in souvenir glasses. At that time, the glasses featured the images of former Derby winners, and a mint julep could be purchased for 75 cents.
Since then, the Derby has become inextricably linked to bourbon. Today, the race is often referred to as the “Run for the Roses and the Bourbon,” and countless bottles of bourbon are enjoyed by fans every year.
The Science Behind Bourbon and the Derby
There is a scientific reason why bourbon and the Kentucky Derby are such a perfect pairing. According to research, the flavors of bourbon complement the spicy and sweet flavors found in the traditional Derby dishes like burgoo, Kentucky country ham, and of course, the classic mint julep.
Bourbon is made by combining corn, rye, and barley with water and yeast. The mash is then aged in charred oak barrels, which impart the spirit with its characteristic smoky flavor. The sweetness of the corn and the spiciness of the rye combine perfectly with the saltiness of the ham and the herbal freshness of the mint.
But it’s not just the flavors that make bourbon and the Kentucky Derby a perfect match. The Derby is also known for its pageantry and tradition, and bourbon has a rich history and tradition of its own. The spirit has been an important part of American culture since the country’s founding, and Kentucky bourbon has become a symbol of American craftsmanship and ingenuity.
The Sober Derby Movement
While the Derby and bourbon have a long and storied history together, there is a growing movement to make the event more inclusive for those who choose not to drink alcohol. The Sober Derby movement is gaining traction, and many venues are offering mocktail versions of the classic mint julep. These alcohol-free versions often feature fresh herbs and fruit juices, and are just as refreshing as the original.
The Sober Derby movement is helping to make the Kentucky Derby more accessible to all, and it is a welcome change for those who do not drink or who are in recovery.
Conclusion
Bourbon and the Kentucky Derby are a perfect pairing, but the recent Sober Derby movement is helping to make the event more inclusive and accessible to all. Whether you choose to enjoy your bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in a refreshing mocktail, there’s no denying that bourbon is an important part of the Derby tradition. So raise a glass (or a mocktail) and toast to the Run for the Roses and the Bourbon. Cheers!
