Introduction
The Belmont Breeze is a modern classic cocktail that captures the spirit of summer with its refreshing blend of whiskey, sherry, and citrus. Created specifically for the Belmont Stakes, the third jewel of the Triple Crown horse racing series held in New York, this cocktail is as invigorating as the race itself. It's a delightful twist on the traditional whiskey punch, offering a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and effervescent flavors.
Developed by master mixologist Dale DeGroff in 1998, the Belmont Breeze was designed to replace the original Belmont Stakes drink, the White Carnation. DeGroff's creation was intended to reflect the diverse and vibrant culture of New York, with a nod to the city's love for whiskey and bold flavors. Today, the Belmont Breeze stands as a testament to the art of cocktail innovation, celebrated by race-goers and cocktail enthusiasts alike.
Fun fact: Unlike its predecessors, the Belmont Breeze is a relatively low-alcohol cocktail, making it a perfect choice for those long, sunny afternoons at the race track. Whether you're a horse racing fan or just looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy, the Belmont Breeze is sure to impress.
Ingredients
To make the Belmont Breeze, gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 1.5 oz Rye Whiskey: Opt for a robust rye whiskey to add depth and spice to your cocktail.
- 0.75 oz Sherry: A dry or medium sherry works best to complement the whiskey.
- 0.75 oz Simple Syrup: A simple syrup made with equal parts sugar and water will balance the tartness of the citrus.
- 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for that bright, tangy kick.
- 1.5 oz Fresh Orange Juice: Orange juice adds a sweet, citrusy base; freshly squeezed is always best.
- 1 oz Cranberry Juice: Cranberry juice provides a subtle tartness and beautiful color.
- 1 oz 7-Up: 7-Up adds a touch of sweetness and fizziness.
- 1 oz Soda Water: Soda water lightens the drink and keeps it refreshing.
- 1 Strawberry: A fresh strawberry for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
- 1 Mint Sprigs: Mint sprigs for a fragrant, herbal note.
- 1 Lemon Wheel: A lemon wheel for a classic, elegant garnish.
Instructions
Crafting the perfect Belmont Breeze is simple. Follow these steps to mix up this refreshing cocktail:
- Shake the liqueurs, syrup, and juices with ice and strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with the 7-Up and soda. Garnish with the strawberry, mint, and lemon.
Tips
- Chill your highball glass in the freezer before serving to keep your cocktail refreshingly cold.
- For a more intense mint aroma, gently slap the mint sprigs between your hands before garnishing.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of simple syrup to suit your personal taste.
- If you prefer a slightly stronger drink, reduce the amount of soda water and 7-Up.
Conclusion
The Belmont Breeze is a cocktail that embodies the excitement and elegance of the Belmont Stakes. Its harmonious blend of whiskey, sherry, and citrus makes it a standout choice for any occasion, whether you're watching the races or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon.
Ready to explore more cocktail recipes and enhance your mixology skills? Download the BarBot app today! With BarBot, you can discover new favorites, experiment with flavors, and log your cocktail adventures. Share your Belmont Breeze experience and connect with a community of cocktail enthusiasts. Cheers to your next great mix!
Belmont Breeze recipe adapted from The Craft of the Cocktail by Dale DeGroff.
