Homestretch Highball

The Homestretch Highball has a spicy, citrusy, smooth, refreshing flavor profile. A refreshing bourbon-based highball that captures the excitement of racing's final moments. This cocktail combines smooth bourbon with crisp ginger beer and a hint of citrus, creating a drink that's both energizing and satisfying.

A Homestretch Highball requires 7 ingredients: Bourbon Whiskey, Fresh Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Angostura Bitters, Ginger Beer, Lemon wheel, candied ginger.

A Homestretch Highball takes about 3 minutes to prepare and is considered easy difficulty.

A Homestretch Highball is traditionally served in a highball, garnished with Lemon wheel and candied ginger.

Yes, you can make a mocktail version of the Homestretch Highball by substituting the spirits with non-alcoholic alternatives such as seedlip, non-alcoholic distilled spirits, or flavored syrups and juices that mimic the original flavor profile.

The Homestretch Highball emerged in the early 2020s from the creative minds of bartenders looking to capture the excitement of horse racing culture in liquid form. Inspired by the classic Kentucky Derby tradition and the popularity of bourbon highballs at racetracks across America, this cocktail pays homage to those final, crucial moments of any race. The name 'homestretch' refers to the final straight section of a racetrack, where horses make their last push toward victory. Bartenders at Louisville's historic Brown Hotel are credited with perfecting this recipe during Derby season, combining the local bourbon heritage with the refreshing qualities needed for warm spring afternoons at Churchill Downs. The addition of fresh lemon juice and a dash of Angostura bitters elevates this beyond a simple bourbon and ginger, creating complexity that mirrors the intensity of a close race. Today, the Homestretch Highball has found its way into cocktail menus nationwide, particularly popular at sports bars and upscale establishments during racing season.