Last night, Jim Beam — widely recognised as the world’s No.1 bourbon — marked the start of Miami’s high-octane race weekend with a standout appearance from Sergio Pérez. The Cadillac Formula 1 Team driver joined fans for an exclusive event that blended motorsport, culture, and craft cocktails in the heart of South Beach.
Hosted at Moxy Miami South Beach, the evening offered a rare off-track opportunity for fans to connect with Pérez ahead of the team’s first race on U.S. soil — a moment that signals a new chapter for American involvement in Formula 1.
A Cocktail Inspired by Heritage: The Jalisco Highball
The highlight of the night was the unveiling of the Jim Beam Jalisco Highball, a vibrant cocktail named after Pérez’s home state in Mexico. Designed to reflect both flavour and identity, the drink combines bold bourbon notes with fresh, tropical elements.
Pérez shared his excitement at the launch, even referencing fellow F1 driver Valtteri Bottas in a light-hearted moment:
“Valtteri Bottas has his Golden Mullet, named by me, and I am excited about my own Jim Beam cocktail – the Jalisco Highball, in honour of my home state…It’s the best one!”
Food, Culture, and Racing Come Together
Led by Global Brand Ambassador Tim Heuisler, the event embraced a shared-table format that encouraged conversation and connection. The experience fused Southern hospitality with cross-cultural culinary influences, combining Kentucky BBQ traditions with Mexican barbacoa flavours — a nod to both Jim Beam’s heritage and Pérez’s roots.
Fans were also treated to a surprise ticket giveaway, offering lucky attendees the chance to experience the race weekend live — reinforcing the brand’s ethos that life is best enjoyed together.
How to Make the Jim Beam Jalisco Highball
Want to recreate the Miami race weekend vibe at home? Here’s how to make the signature cocktail:
Ingredients:
- 1½ oz Jim Beam Black
- ¾ oz guava syrup
- ½ oz lime juice
- 3 oz Fever-Tree soda water
- 2–3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
Method:
Shake the bourbon, guava syrup, and lime juice with ice, then strain into a glass over fresh ice. Top with soda water and gently float the bitters on top for a layered finish.
The Bigger Picture: Brands Tapping into F1 Culture
As Formula 1 continues to surge in popularity — particularly in the U.S. — collaborations like this highlight how lifestyle brands are tapping into the sport’s global audience. From exclusive events to bespoke cocktails, these partnerships are reshaping how fans engage with racing culture beyond the track.
