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A creative cocktail for the Derby from Lucky Tiger in NYC

A Derby Day drink inspired by the Far East

By Mark Stock Published April 28, 2026

Derby Day drinks at Lucky Tiger. — Lucky Tiger

Move over Mint Julep, there’s something more inventive to whip up for the Kentucky Derby. We appreciate a good whiskey cocktail now and again, but sometimes you have to mix it up. Even if that means treating your whiskey to a special wash and then sourcing more unique ingredients.

Today’s inspiration comes from Lucky Tiger in New York City. The Asian-inspired bar flexes a mighty drink program that’s never light on flair and flavor. And that’s just what we’re after as we don the big hats and get ready for the big race.

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For those keeping track, the race takes place on May 2nd. That means you have a few days to dial this recipe in. And if you don’t care about fast horses, that’s fine too. Sometimes you just need to delicious spring cocktail to greet the season.

Perhaps this drink will wow you so much that’ll it’ll become your signature cocktail for Memorial Day Weekend. It’s certainly refreshing enough and the crushed ice offers tremendous texture. Oh, and set a few extra Nori sheets (seaweed) aside as the snack goes great with the cocktail in addition to serving as a nice garnish.

Seabisquit

Named after the famous race horse, this cocktail takes advantage of some cool techniques and the one-of-a-kind punch of yuzu.

Ingredients:

2 ounces Nori butter-washed Makers 46
1/4 ounce Drambuie
1/2 ounce grapefruit cordial
1/4 ounce yuzu syrup
Crushed ice
Nori Sheets for garnish

Method:

Add all ingredients to glass, add crushed ice, and stir to mix.
Add more crushed ice and top with Nori sheets.

Contributor

Mark Stock is a writer from Portland, Oregon. He fell into wine during the Recession and has been fixated on the stuff since…

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