This Oaks Lily Cocktail is the unsung cocktail hero of Churchill Downs

About the recipe

The unsung cocktail hero of Churchill Downs, the Oaks Lily is perfect for those who may not be in the mood for a Mint Julep. A slightly sweeter riff on a cosmopolitan, tart cranberry juice keeps this drink from teetering too far into saccharine territory. 

Simple syrup is easy to make; just combine equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan and simmer sugar has dissolved. Cool and store until ready to use.

Serves: 1

Hands On Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

Ice

1 ounce vodka

½ ounce orange liqueur

½ ounce simple syrup (See Notes)

½ ounce fresh lemon juice

3 ounces cranberry juice

Lemon wedges, for serving

Fresh blackberries, for serving

Instructions

Fill a Collins or highball glass with ice. Add vodka, orange liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup and cranberry juice, then stir to combine. Garnish with a lemon wedge and a fresh blackberry. Serve.