Kentucky Derby Juleps

This weekend marks not only Cinco de Mayo off the calendar but what is considered the most exciting 2 minutes in sports...or more commonly known as the Kentucky Derby. Tradition dictates that the derby is always held on the first Saturday in May. Also part of the tradition, is a special sneeky. The race is best enjoyed with a mint julep nearby. (And, if you are a lady, a lavish hat won't hurt, either.) According to the Kentucky Derby Museum, the mint julep has been the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century. It's really a simple cocktail; a little bourbon, some simple syrup, and mint. Garnish with some powdered sugar and a some more mint. Though easy to make, when done well, it's oh so refreshing!

Here are four variations to the classic drink:

"Dad's Cough Syrup"

Todays “Sneeky” is from my dear friend and client Dawn Moore. Dawn wanted to call the sneeky the “Drunken Bee” or even “Dad's Cough Syrup” because when she had a sore throat as a little girl, her father used to warm a little whiskey and honey for her.

What I love about this particular fatherly care, is that it was being administered by a legendary western hero we don’t normally associate with a little hooch. Fact: Dawn’s father, Clayton Moore portrayed “The Lone Ranger” on the unforgettable TV show.

So, in an early nod to Father’s Day, here’s a little whiskey and honey. Medicinal, of course.

RECIPE Muddle some fresh Kentucky Mint – the kind used for Juleps - in the bottom of a pretty 6 oz. glass. Don't be shy with the mint.

Add ice and pour 3 oz. of a honeyed-bourbon (I used Wild Turkey's American Honey) followed by 2 oz. of an iced herbal (I used Tazo's Calm) tea – hibiscus, jasmine, chamomile or mint will all work - and stir.

For your nose, float a sprig of mint on the top and hoist a toast to your dad!

check out Dawn’s website @:www.mooreabout.com