Pink Pony’s Bourbon Sparkler

Bottoms Up

By Lynda Wheatley | June 4, 2022

A few weeks back, we were lucky enough to find ourselves inside Mackinac Island’s famed Pink Pony the night of the equally famous Kentucky Derby. And while the loyal Southerner in our gang upheld Kentucky Derby tradition and chose the almighty Mint Julep (with which the Pony did not disappoint; highly recommended you try one), we broke from the bridle on convention and made a mad dash for the Pony’s Bourbon Sparkler—a cocktail made much like a Moscow Mule, but with a punch of horsepower and more depth. Instead of the mule’s vodka, the sparkler brings Bulleit Bourbon to the fore, sweetening it only slightly with a honey-infused simple syrup and the requisite ginger beer. A strong squeeze of lemon both lightens and mellows the load. A bit like Rich Strike himself, this one’s a winner. Find the Bourbon Sparkler at Pink Pony, inside and adjacent to The Chippewa Hotel, at 7221 Main St., Mackinac Island. (906) 847-3341