Derby #2

I'm trying to feature more local Virginia spirits in my classic cocktail posts. MurLarkey whiskey is often one of my most frequent go-to ingredients, but keep in mind that is because they have a huge product line. Even though this recipe calls for blended whiskey, for instance, I realized that rye and MurLarkey lemon whiskey would be a helpful addition. 

The rye I'm speaking of is not from Virginia, but it is one of the best in the country: Glacier Distilling's North Fork rye! This is a rich rye--a little goes a long way. It has such an oak presence that one could mistake it for bourbon on first sip. That is until the spice notes kick in. 

So with a citrus-forward cocktail like all Derby variations, I decided to mix in the lemon whiskey. This increased the citrus richness to include lemon peel infused whiskey to orange flavored liqueur and fresh lime juice.

• 1 oz. blended whiskey (1/2 oz. each of MurLarkey lemon and North Fork rye used)
• 1/2 oz. sweet vermouth (cocchi Dopo Tetatro used)
• 1/2 oz. curacao (triple sec used)
• mint sprig for garnish

Combine liquid ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and pour into a chilled Old Fashioned glass. Garnish with the mint sprig.