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Grapefruit &Thyme Bourbon Smash #DerbyDayRecipes


When Ellen from Family Around the Table suggested a blogging event around Derby Day, I jumped at the chance though I wasn't completely sure I knew what that meant. So, I looked up the definition...

derby
noun  der·by \ˈdər-bē, especially British ˈdär-\
definition
1. any of several horse races held annually and usually restricted to three-year-olds
2. a race or contest open to all comers or to a specified category of contestants bicycle derby
3. a man's stiff felt hat with dome-shaped crown and narrow brim

Ellen writes: "It’s said that in Louisville, Kentucky for 6 months leading up to the Kentucky Derby, that all conversation revolves around Derby Day. My blogger colleagues and I share some derby inspired foods. Is your hat ready?"
Though I know that Mint Juleps are the cocktail of choice for this day, I decided to go with a cocktail that celebrated winter citrus's last hurrah and used bourbon. This Grapefruit &Thyme Bourbon Smash is full of bright citrus flavor and aromatic herbs. Muddled kumquat and thyme, combined with fresh grapefruit juice and delicious Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the Derby!

Grapefruit & Thyme Bourbon Smash

Ingredients makes 2 cocktails

  • 10 sprigs fresh organic thyme
  • 2 organic kumquats, halved
  • 1 t organic granulated sugar
  • 6 cold whiskey stones
  • 3 ounces Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey
  • 1/2 C freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
  • 4 dashes bitters
  • 2 grapefruit slices for serving
  • 2 sprigs fresh organic thyme for serving
  • sparkling water

Procedure
Place the thyme sprigs, kumquat halves, and sugar and add to a cocktail shaker. Muddle to release the juice from the kumquat for at least 60 seconds. Pour the bourbon, grapefruit juice and bitters to the shaker. And stir for 20 seconds.



Fill your chilled glasses with ice or whiskey stones and strain the cocktail between the two glasses. Top off with sparkling water. Garnish each glass with a grapefruit slice and a sprig of thyme. Serve immediately. Cheers!

Comments

  1. What a refreshing cocktail, not only for Derby Day but any day! We have friends with a kumquat tree!

    ReplyDelete
  2. I love the citrus used in this drink, especially the kumquats. I'm going to skewer them and use them as garnish.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I know what I am having while I am watching the Derby tonight, Thanks for sharing!

    ReplyDelete

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