Preakness Cocktail

Pro tips

• Chill your coupe glass by filling it with ice water while you prepare the drink; discard water before straining.
• Stir the cocktail with ice for 15–20 seconds until well-chilled and diluted to balance the spirit-forward ingredients.
• Use a dash bottle or Angostura bottle with a dash cap to portion bitters consistently and avoid over-pouring.

Substitutions

• Old Thompson Blended Whiskey → rye whiskey (brings spice and dryness)
• Benedictine → yellow Chartreuse (herbal but sweeter and more complex)

Equipment

cocktail shaker or mixing glass · barspoon · jigger or shot glass for measuring · coupe or martini glass

Can I substitute the whiskey in a Preakness cocktail?

Yes, rye whiskey works well as a substitute for blended whiskey, offering a spicier profile while maintaining the drink's character.

Should a Preakness cocktail be served up or on the rocks?

Traditionally served up (chilled without ice) and strained into a coupe glass for a refined presentation.

What is the proper way to measure the Benedictine in this cocktail?

Use a barspoon or ½ teaspoon measure to ensure accuracy, as Benedictine's herbal intensity requires precise portioning.

Can I make a Preakness cocktail without Benedictine?

Benedictine is essential to the drink's signature herbal character, though substituting with yellow Chartreuse changes the profile significantly.