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Dawn Saturday will find Salt Lake City cocktailians rubbing their eyes and wondering how they should spend their day: celebrating the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby or celebrating Cinco de Mayo. Both of these days are often the occasion for parties or gatherings, and both have strong associations with popular cocktails: the Margarita for Cinco de Mayo, and the Mint Julep for the Kentucky Derby.
Early in the day (but not too early, post time isn’t until around 4:20 PM MDT) it will be time for the classic Mint Julep that has been Churchill Down's signature cocktail for 75 years since 1938. (Remember, the race only lasts two minutes, so don’t miss it because you’re off making Juleps.) The more adventurous among you should by now have tried David Wondrich’s variation on the Mint Julep, the Prescription Julep, a perfect combination of Rye Whiskey and Cognac. Juleps are best enjoyed with fresh mint; if you’re stuck with store-bought mint this year, check out this article for information on growing your own for next year. Yes, Juleps are delicious, but don’t overdo it if you also plan to celebrate Cinco de Mayo later.
How will you be celebrating Cinco de Mayo when evening comes? This year marks the 150th anniversary of Mexico’s Batalla de Puebla, so Mexican-Americans may party more than usual. Salt Lake City lovers of Classic Margaritas may be going to a favorite local Mexican restaurant like Frida Bistro or Tres Hombres, or celebrating at home with a favorite recipe. Margaritas are the favorite cocktail of the USA, based on sales; over four million Margaritas are sold in the USA daily. As yummy as Classic Margaritas are, you might be ready for something different. So why not try a Chambord® Margarita Royale? Both of these Margaritas are delicious and they taste so good that it’s easy to have one too many, so drink wisely. To give your Margaritas a special flair, see my Cinco de Mayo glass rimming technique.
