And They’re Off: Rose Julep Edition

We are so excited to announce that we have partnered with the Kentucky Derby Festival again for the 18^th Annual Four Roses Rose Julep Cocktail Competition. Over the years, bartenders from Louisville, Lexington and Northern Kentucky have continually put unique twists on the classic mint julep cocktail, but which recipe reigns supreme?

This year’s competition will look a little different from years past, but we are excited to be able to continue on the tradition. Between Monday, March 22, and Monday, April 5, these select mixologists will compete for the top honors of Judges’ Choice and People’s Choice awards:

Louisville:
Colleen McCarthy, Martini Italian Bistro
Isaac Fox, La Chasse

Lexington:
Shea Bustle,Thirsty Fox
Mike Abbott, Goodfella’s Wise Guy Lounge

Northern Kentucky:
Lauren Pellecchia, O’Neals Tavern*
Bill Whitlow, Rich’s Proper Food & Drink 

*O’Neals Tavern is currently closed, in order to try Lauren’s cocktail please visit julep.fourrosesbourbon.com to get the recipe and try it at home.

During that time, we encourage all of you to try these creative julep recipes by either visiting any or all of the finalists’ locations and ordering their handcrafted cocktails, or – if you are not in the area – participating online by visiting  julep.fourrosesbourbon.com to get the recipes and test them out at home. Then after you’ve found your favorite handcrafted recipe, you can head to julep.fourrosesbourbon.com to place your vote.

The creative mixologists have handcrafted julep recipes all their own, using Four Roses Small Batch, along with an array of unique ingredients, including bananas, black tea syrup, lingonberry shrub, roasted pineapple-chipotle syrup and more.

In addition to the People’s Choice award, a panel of beverage industry experts will taste and score the juleps based on aroma, creativity, taste and presentation to crown the Judges’ Choice winner.

We hope you enjoy these creative cocktails and remind you to be mellow and responsible. Cheers to Derby season!