The “forgotten” Louisville cocktail is perfect for Derby Day.
Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
The story of the Seelbach cocktail is irresistible.
In 1912, a honeymooning couple visited The Seelbach Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
“You got chocolate in my peanut butter!")
they somehow spilled the drinks into each others' glasses.
He puts it on the menu at the Old Seelbach Bar.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
And for the second time in history, the Seelbach cocktail becomes an overnight sensation.
Its Roaring 20s glamour with a heavy dash of perfectly on-trend historic mixology.
It’s also a total lie.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
But when he couldn’t find an old signature cocktail, he invented one, backstory and all.
Seger confessed it all toThe New York Timesin 2016.
The Seelbachs origins might be completely fake, but its appeal is very, very real.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
What’s a Seelbach Cocktail?
Think of it as a Champagne cocktail from the heart of bourbon country.
The result is strong, not too sweet, and a welcome departure from the traditional Derby Daymint julep.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Ingredients
1oz.
)Kentucky bourbon(such as Old Forester)
1/2oz.
)orange liqueur(such as triple sec or Cointreau)
7dashesAngostura bitters
7dashesPeychauds bitters
5oz.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Shake:
Shake or stir until chilled.
Strain:
Strain into a Champagne flute or coupe glass.
Add Champagne and curled orange peel:
Top with sparkling wine.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel, Food Stylist: Torie Cox
