Victory Drink of the Month: Belle Vodka’s JezeBelle, the ideal winner’s circle cocktail!

The Race: Kentucky Derby Presented by Woodford Reserve

The Venue: Churchill Downs

The Date: May 4

The Winner: Country House

The Toast: In what will go down in history as one of the most controversial Kentucky Derbys, the 145^th renewal saw Maximum Security lead the field from start to finish and apparently secure a historic win, only to be demoted to 17^th after stewards judged he interfered with three other horses leaving the final turn. Longshot Country House, who crossed the finish line second, was moved up to first, sparking pandemonium and a heightened interest in the sport’s rules of competition. Watch a race replay and read the recap here.

After the Race: Summertime is on the cusp, and what better way to celebrate an early evening get-together with friends than Belle Vodka’s sweet and sour JezeBelle? Enjoy this vodka and lime concoction while debating the merits of the Kentucky Derby judges’ decision at an outdoor patio event.

What’s Next: Horse racing moves on rapidly to the second jewel of the Triple Crown, the 144^thPreakness Stakes on May 18 at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore. Several Kentucky Derby horses are lined up for the 144^th Preakness, which will also serve as the location for one of the Mid-Atlantic region’s hottest parties of the year.

The Ingredients:

• 1.5 ounces of Belle Vodka
• Mint, lime juice, and sour mix

How to Make It:

• Shake vigorously and serve over ice and garnished with mint leaves