A few weeks ago, Ed and I had the pleasure of attending the 11th annual ‘Evening of Dreams’ gala hosted by Jan’s Circle of Friends. This amazing non-profit is dedicated to supporting children affected by domestic violence and parental loss. We’re especially grateful that Good Samaritan Services, where Ed works, has been a beneficiary of their generosity, receiving nearly $150,000 in donations over the years.

Kentucky Mule - Nicole and EdThis year’s gala embraced a Kentucky Derby theme – a motif we were more than happy to rally behind. Ed sported his horse-patterned trousers paired with a mint julep bow tie, while I adorned a navy blue hat accented with pink and green ribbon, complemented by matching shoes and purse. We were off to the races, sartorially speaking.

The event tables featured charming Kentucky Derby-inspired drink recipe cards as decorations, inviting guests to take them home. Among the classics like the Mint Julep and the Oaks Lily, I was drawn to the Kentucky Mule – a delightful variation I hadn’t yet shared on Riegl Palate.

Kentucky Mule Recipe CardWhile I savor a Mint Julep during the Derby (held annually on the first Saturday of May), I sometimes find it a tad strong (confession – I occasionally add a splash of club soda to mellow it out). The Kentucky Mule offers a refreshing alternative, combining the rich notes of bourbon with the zesty kick of lime juice and the spicy effervescence of ginger beer. I opted for Q Light Ginger Beer, which added an extra layer of refreshment. Don’t forget to garnish with a sprig of mint – the aroma enhances every sip.

For those curious about the ‘mule’ moniker, it refers to cocktails crafted with a base spirit, citrus juice, and ginger beer or ginger ale. If you’re in the mood to explore further, consider trying a Moscow Mule (vodka-based), Dublin Mule (Irish whiskey-based), or Mexico Mule (tequila-based).

Here’s to the most exhilarating two minutes in sports – this year, the Kentucky Derby falls on May 3rd!

Kentucky Mule

 

Kentucky Mule
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Recipe type: Drink
Author:
Serves: 1
Ingredients
  • 1-1/2 ounces bourbon
  • 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice (~ 1 lime)
  • 4 to 6 ounces of good quality ginger beer
  • Fresh mint and lime wheel (for garnish)
Instructions
  1. Fill a copper mug (or rocks glass ) with crushed ice (cubes will work as well).
  2. Add bourbon and lime juice and stir.
  3. Top with ginger beer and stir.
  4. Garnish with fresh mint and a lime wheel.
Notes
* Be sure to use ginger beer and not ginger ale.
* I used Q Light Ginger Beerand it was just the right flavor.
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