Much like the Kentucky Derby is strongly associated with the Mint Julep, the official cocktail of The Preakness is not actually it’s namesake. The cocktail that actually bears the name The Preakness is named for the ball that occurred near by in 1936. To the best of anyone’s knowledge it seemed it never made its way to the racetrack, but was voted the cocktail of the Preakness Ball by eight judges. The actual official cocktail is the Black Eyed Susan, a mixture of vodka, bourbon, peach schnapps, orange juice, and/or sour mix. Just on paper, I know which I’d prefer.
The Preakness
A Manhattan with Benedictine is what it looks like on paper, and unsurprisingly what it tastes like. The spicy notes are helpful in complimenting some of the spices and herbal notes in the Benedictine. Just like the Manhattan the acidity from the vermouth helps elevate everything. Overall, the Preakness is a pretty cocktail that’s not a significant step off a Manhattan, but a welcome one.
Drink Notes & Recommendations
The Preakness is unsurprising giving the era it comes from. One of the key elements here is to focus on making sure your bourbon is heavy on the rye, or just use rye instead.
- Bourbon / Rye – The original was supposedly made with a Maryland rye originally. As most people wouldn’t have access to this, look for rye such as Rittenhouse or rye forward bourbons like Wild Turkey 101 or Old Grand Dad 114.
- Vermouth – I recommend Carpano Antica or your favorite.
- Bitters – Angostura are recommended, but feel free to substitute your favorite aromatic bitters.
- Benedictine – There is no substitute here – if you don’t have it, you can’t make this.
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