The Victoria Racing Club (VRC) in partnership with Diageo has debuted its first-ever official cocktail for the Melbourne Cup Carnival, the Don Julio Golden Gallop.

Crafted by leading Australian bartender Jimmy Irvine, the Don Julio Golden Gallop will be available across multiple member facilities for an exclusive member price of $20 and general admission areas for $22.

Diageo is the exclusive provider of alcoholic and premium non-alcoholic spirits for the VRC and the highly anticipated Melbourne Cup Carnival until at least 2027.

VRC Chief Commercial Officer Fran Vavallo said: “The Melbourne Cup Carnival is a truly global event and our partnership with Diageo and Don Julio ensures we continue to deliver world-class experiences at Flemington, from The Elms to The Birdcage and every venue in between.”

Irvine said: “The Don Julio Golden Gallop is a cocktail designed to capture the excitement and energy of spring in Melbourne. The joint is rocking! People are out and about, dressed to the nines and the atmosphere is incredible.

“The Don Julio Golden Gallop drinks with bright vibrancy, fun tropical flavours and bursting aromatic citrus, whilst being sophisticated and structured. It’s an incredibly exciting occasion to be enjoying Don Julio Tequila – giddy up!”

The 2025 Melbourne Cup Carnival commences with Howden Victoria Derby Day on 1 November followed by Lexus Melbourne Cup Day on 4 November, Crown Oaks Day on 6 November and TAB Champions Stakes Day on 8 November.

 Consumers can also recreate the cocktail at home, with Irvine sharing the recipe.

Don Julio Tequila Golden Gallop

• 30ml Don Julio Tequila
• 15ml yuzu cordial
• 7.5ml peach liqueur
• 7.5ml passionfruit liqueur
• soda water

METHOD: Build in a highball over ice. Garnish with a marigold flower.