Four Roses Bourbon has a reputation for being exceptional. In fact, they were named American Whisky Distiller of the Year for 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2015 – four times in the last five years – by Whisky Magazine. So, when they reached out to me to create a Derby-inspired cocktail using their “Yellow” Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, I was excited.

This bourbon is light and superbly sippable — it is perfect to enjoy alone on the rocks, as well as to mix in cocktails. It is versatile and has a crisp, yet soft finish. You can even pick out some hints of pear and apple, which are a really lovely surprise in a bourbon, when they can often be incredibly heavy, smoky, and earthy.

Of course, when you think Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep is the classic. And the classic is always a great go-to. But, I wanted to shake it up just a little bit and add some ingredients that would be a little more season-focused to create something you could drink all summer long.

Let me introduce to you, the Kentucky Lady, by Heartbeat Nosh. This cocktail rings true of the classic Mint Julep, but has a citrusy sweet finish that you’ll find refreshing and light. The blueberries add just a slight undertone of earthly fruit, rounding out the mint.

Recipe:

The Kentucky Lady

2 oz Four Roses Bourbon
1 oz orange liqueur (I used Grand Gala)
2 dashes Bitters Lab Aromatic Bitters
Juice of 1/2 a lime
Fresh Mint
1 Sugar cube
Handful of fresh blueberries

To make:

• In your shaker, add 1 sugar cube, one bunch of mint leaves (tear in half and twist to unlock the aromatics and oils), and 1 tsp of water. Muddle.
• Add ice and handful of fresh blueberries.
• Add Four Roses Bourbon, orange liquor, bitters, and lime juice.
• SHAKE SHAKE SHAKE!
• Pour over crushed or small-cubed ice in a chilled Mint Julep tumbler and garnish with fresh blueberries and a bunch of fresh mint.

Enjoy!

So, if you have some fun Derby parties coming up this weekend, put this cocktail on your list!
And definitely pick up some Four Roses Bourbon for ALL of your Julep-inspired libations.

*This post was in partnership with Four Roses Bourbon