Belmont Stakes Drink (Belmont Jewel)

By Steve Kilcullen Jump to Recipe

You’ll be off to the races with the gorgeous and groovy Belmont Jewel.

As a child, I would often overhear random grown-ups yammering to each other about things that were beyond my grasp. My parents never patronized or talked down to me, but when they had conversations with other adults, I rarely understood what the hell they were talking about. One memory that really sticks out is hearing a passing stranger remark how they “love the Belmont Stakes.”

My unevolved, grade-school brain heard steaks, not stakes. A cavalcade of images stormed through my head: Atmospheric and expensive restaurants that had glowing chandeliers, snooty waiters, and sirloins the size of King Kong’s little finger, served on even larger plates. Baked potatoes, melted butter, garlic, and the urge to smirk and say, “Thanks, shallot,” fired my imagination. When I get older, I thought, I’m gonna order the biggest Belmont steak they’re legally allowed to serve you.

When I was in high school, my family were dining at a fancy steakhouse one evening. After being asked what I was thinking of ordering, I brightly declared how I was looking forward to having a Belmont steak. You should have seen my father’s face. I tend to learn things the hard way.

What isn’t hard is the recipe for tonight’s cocktail, the Belmont Jewel. Like the Kentucky Derby, the Belmont Stakes is a Triple Crown horse race, and both have a signature drink. While the Derby has always had the Mint Julep as its official cocktail, the Belmont Stakes has gone through a few over the years, only recently settling on the simple and delicious Belmont Jewel.

Mixing bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice, this lovely red dram is easy to make and just as easy to drink. It also goes well with a nice, juicy steak.

What is a Triple Crown Race?

The Triple Crown is a series of thoroughbred races comprising the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. An American tradition since the 1800s, a three-year-old thoroughbred horse must compete in and win all three races to be named the Triple Crown winner. These events are traditionally held each year in May and June.

What is the Best Bourbon to Use in a Belmont Jewel?

There’s the “best”—those top-shelf bourbons that cost an arm and a leg—and then there’s the bourbon you prefer. If you know what you like, your Belmont Jewel is guaranteed to be a winner. If you’re not that well-versed in bourbon, try one of the more famous brands. I would also recommend spending a few extra dollars on some small-batch spirits. If it’s from Kentucky, you’re on the right track.

What kind of glass and garnish is best for a Belmont Jewel?

Fill a double rocks or Old Fashioned glass with ice for an elegant sipping experience. Garnish with a lemon or orange wedge, or even a cherry.

How long has the Belmont Jewel been the official cocktail of the Belmont Stakes?

Since 2015. While the Kentucky Derby has always had the tried-and-true Mint Julep, a number of drinks have been served as the Stakes’ official beverage. The previous cocktail, the Belmont Breeze, had eight ingredients. With the Jewel containing only three, this recipe is much simpler to serve to large crowds.

Similar Cocktails to the Belmont Jewel

The sun is beating down and the hooves of the horses barrel across the racetrack toward the finish line. As you pray your pony wins the prize, a cool sip of a Belmont Jewel completes the experience. This smoky and sweet treat is hitting all the right spots, making you thirsty, not just for another round but for other drinks that will tickle the same spot this one did. Twist & Toast is there to make things easy, with some of the best cocktail recipes that will whet your whistle.

• Mint Julep – Stay in the horse racing mood with the classic and traditional Mint Julep.
• Bourbon Manhattan – Smoky and sophisticated, this is the perfect dram after a long day.
• Bourbon Lemonade – Minty, sweet, and strong, the Bourbon Lemonade will put out a few thirsty fires.
• Bourbon Sour – A satisfying bite hits your tongue with every sip of this bourbon-forward sour.