The Belmont Stakes is one of horse racing’s most prestigious events, often referred to as the “Test of the Champion”. The race is the final leg of the Triple Crown, along with the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. This thrilling event is renowned for delivering an unforgettable spectacle of speed, skill, and sophistication.
The Belmont Stakes is not only about horse racing but also about the tradition and glamour it embodies. One of the most important traditions of the race is its official drink, which has been an integral part of the Belmont Stakes for many years. But what exactly is the official drink of the Belmont Stakes? In this article, we explore the history and significance of this delicious drink that adds to the excitement of the race.
The History of the Belmont Stakes Race and Its Traditional Drink
The Belmont Stakes Race is one of the most distinguished horse races in the world. Established in 1867, it is the oldest of the three races that make up the Triple Crown, which also includes the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. While the race has produced many memorable moments over the years, one particular aspect that has remained constant is the drink that has become synonymous with it.
Dating back to the 19th century, the Belmont Jewel has been the official drink of the race. It is a refreshing, fruity cocktail made with bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice, served over ice with a twist of lemon. Over the years, the recipe has been updated to cater to the changing tastes of racegoers, but the basic ingredients have remained the same. The drink has become an essential part of the Belmont Stakes experience, and fans of the race have made it a tradition to indulge in a glass or two on race day.
How the Belmont Breeze Became the Official Drink of the Belmont Stakes Race
The Belmont Breeze, a refreshing cocktail with a blend of flavors, became the official drink of the Belmont Stakes Race in 1998. The cocktail was created to offer fans at the race a unique and refreshing drink that symbolizes the ceremony and tradition of the event. Previously, the official drink for the Belmont Stakes Race was a simple Whiskey Sour, however, with time, the organizers decided to introduce a new drink that’s modern yet represents the lore of the race.
The creation of the Belmont Breeze was a result of a competition launched by the New York Racing Association (NYRA), which invited bartenders from around the world to submit their entries. After the submissions, the NYRA team created multiple versions of the drink, which were then tested and tasted by a panel of judges and select group of Belmont insiders before the final version was chosen. As the winner, the Belmont Breeze was declared the new official drink for the Belmont Stakes Race, and it features prominently in the ceremony and tradition of the race.
The Ingredients and Recipe for the Belmont Breeze Cocktail
The Belmont Breeze Cocktail has been the official drink of the Belmont Stakes Race since 1998. It was created by Dale DeGroff, a well-known mixologist, to replace the previously used White Carnation cocktail. The cocktail is a refreshing blend of bourbon whiskey, dry sherry, and fresh lemon juice.
To make the Belmont Breeze Cocktail, you will need to mix two parts bourbon whiskey, one part dry sherry, six parts fresh lemon juice, and seven parts cranberry juice. Add a splash of simple syrup, orange zest, and a sprig of mint for garnish. The cocktail is best served over ice in a tall, elegant glass. The Belmont Breeze Cocktail is a crowd-pleaser and a must-try for anyone attending or watching the Belmont Stakes Race.
Variations and Twists on the Traditional Belmont Breeze Recipe
The Belmont Breeze is a cocktail that has been around since the 1990s, and it’s the official drink of the Belmont Stakes race. It’s a refreshing drink that consists of a blend of lemon juice, cranberry juice, orange juice, and a few ounces of Bourbon whiskey. This cocktail is usually served over crushed ice and garnished with a cherry and orange slice. However, there are variations and twists on the traditional recipe that you can try.
Some variations of the Belmont Breeze recipe include substituting the Bourbon whiskey with vodka, rum, or tequila. Some bartenders also add ginger ale or ginger beer to give it a spicy kick. Other variations include adding muddled fruits such as strawberries or peaches to give the drink a fruity taste. You can also play around with the ratios of the ingredients to make it sweeter or tangier to suit your taste buds. No matter what variation you choose, the Belmont Breeze is a perfect drink that celebrates the spirit of the Belmont Stakes race.
Other Beverages Served at the Belmont Stakes Race
Aside from the official Belmont Jewel cocktail, other beverages are also available at the Belmont Stakes Race. Beer options include domestic and imported brands, with the most popular being Budweiser and Stella Artois. Wine is also served, with a selection of red, white, and rosé wines to choose from.
Non-alcoholic alternatives are also available, such as bottled water, iced tea, and soda. In addition, there are specialty drinks like lemonade and frozen margaritas. Whatever your preference may be, there is sure to be a beverage option for everyone at the Belmont Stakes Race.
The Role of the Official Drink in Race Day Festivities and Culture
The official drink of the Belmont Stakes race, the Belmont Jewel, plays a significant role in the race day festivities and culture. The cocktail was introduced in 2012 and has quickly become a popular drink among race-goers. The drink is typically served in a souvenir glass with the recipe printed on the side, making it a perfect keepsake for race day attendees.
The Belmont Jewel also adds to the prestigious atmosphere of the Belmont Stakes race. The cocktail is a sophisticated blend of bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice, giving it a timeless and classy feel. The drink has become an integral part of race day traditions, adding to the overall experience of attending the event. It is enjoyed by seasoned racegoers and newcomers alike, cementing its status as the official drink of the Belmont Stakes race.
Fun Facts and Trivia About the Belmont Breeze and the Belmont Stakes Race.
The Belmont Breeze is the official drink of the Belmont Stakes race, and it was introduced in 1998. The cocktail is made with bourbon, dry sherry, fresh lemon juice, pomegranate juice, simple syrup, orange bitters, and a splash of club soda. It is garnished with a lemon wedge, a cherry, and a sprig of mint. The recipe was created by a bartender named Dale DeGroff, and it was chosen by the New York Racing Association as the official drink of the Belmont Stakes race.
The Belmont Breeze has become a popular drink among racegoers, and it is served on race day at the Belmont Park racetrack. The cocktail is also available at various bars and restaurants in New York City, where it has gained a reputation as a classic summer cocktail. In addition, the Belmont Breeze has inspired other horse racing cocktails like the Kentucky Derby’s Mint Julep and the Preakness Stakes’ Black-Eyed Susan.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, the official drink of the Belmont Stakes race is an important aspect of its history and tradition. The refreshing Belmont Jewel, a combination of bourbon, lemonade, and pomegranate juice, has become synonymous with this prestigious event. Whether you are a horse racing fan or a cocktail enthusiast, the Belmont Jewel is a must-try drink that captures the essence of this thrilling race.
As we await the next running of the Belmont Stakes, let us raise a toast with the official drink of the race – the Belmont Jewel. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the race and its role in American sporting culture. Whether watching from the stands or at home, sipping a Belmont Jewel adds to the excitement and pageantry of this celebrated event. Cheers to the Belmont Stakes and its official drink, the iconic Belmont Jewel!