Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Belmont Breeze Cocktail

The "spirit" of the Belmont Stakes is The Belmont Breeze, a refreshing cocktail created by New York City master mixologist, Dale DeGroff, a founder and president of The Museum of the American Cocktail due to open in New Orleans this summer. The Belmont Breeze is the official cocktail for horse racing's Belmont Stakes, the oldest of the Triple Crown races.

"I created this cocktail to honor the tradition of whisky and mint drinks at the racetrack", says Dale DeGroff, inventor of the "Belmont Breeze". The cocktail has since become the signature drink of the Belmont Stakes.

A secret ingredient? Dry Sack, one of the world's finest and most versatile sherries from Spain, It has a fragrant bouquet and a light yet satisfying taste that is neither too dry nor too sweet. "Historically, the racetrack was home to the fine cocktail. Whiskies and sherries were traditional ingredients used in the punches that were served in 19th century racing," said DeGroff.

BELMONT BREEZE
Original Recipe by Dale DeGroff

1 1/2 ounces Makers Mark Bourbon
3/4 ounce Dry Sack
3/4 ounce Fresh Lemon Juice
3/4 ounce Simple Syrup
1 1/2 ounce Fresh Orange juice
1 1/2 ounce Ocean Spray Cranberry juice

Shake all ingredients with ice and top with half 7up and half soda, approximately one ounce of each. Garnish with fresh strawberry, a mint sprig and a lemon wedge.

Dry Sack was first produced in 1905 from the award-winning Williams & Humbert winery in Jerez, Spain. It is a blend of the finest Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez grapes and is aged for six years under the authentic Spanish Solera System of blending. Dry Sack is the perfect aperitif - priming the palate without overwhelming the senses. Best served chilled in a wine glass, or on the rocks in a short tumbler. Dry Sack is 19.5% alcohol by volume and is available in 750ml bottles. Average retail price $14.99. Dry Sack is imported by Kindred Spirits of North America, Inc., Miami.

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