The Iron Bowl is one of Alabama’s most treasured traditions. For generations, the annual matchup between Alabama and Auburn has brought together families, friends and communities, even if everyone isn’t cheering for the same team.
Whether you’re yelling “Roll Tide” or “War Eagle,” no game day gathering is complete without good food, good company and something refreshing to sip while watching the rivalry unfold.
Presented by Rob’s Happy Hour, these two game day drinks give each side of the rivalry something of its own. Alabama fans can mix up a Yellowhammer, the legendary Tuscaloosa favorite, while Auburn fans can pour a glass of refreshing Toomer’s Lemonade, inspired by one of the university’s most recognizable landmarks.
So pick your side, raise your glass and enjoy one of Alabama’s favorite Saturdays of the year.
Follow @robshappyhour on Instagram for more drink inspiration.
Yellowhammer
A Tuscaloosa game day classic, the Yellowhammer has become almost as much a part of an Alabama football weekend as crimson and white. Fruity, refreshing and easy to drink, this cocktail combines vodka, rum and amaretto with pineapple and orange juices for a sweet, tropical flavor.
Served over plenty of ice and finished with an orange slice and maraschino cherry, it’s an easy cocktail to mix up before kickoff or serve while everyone gathers around the television. Just don’t let that fruity flavor fool you. This Alabama favorite packs a little more punch than you might expect.
Ingredients
1 oz vodka
1 oz light rum
1 oz amaretto
4 oz pineapple juice
2 oz orange juice
Orange slice and maraschino cherry, for garnish
Directions
Combine the vodka, light rum, amaretto, pineapple juice and orange juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake briefly until chilled, then strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish with an orange slice and maraschino cherry, then serve immediately.
Toomer’s Lemonade
Few things say Auburn quite like a cold glass of lemonade and a visit to Toomer’s Corner. Inspired by the beloved Auburn landmark, this sweet and tart Southern favorite is a simple and refreshing addition to an Iron Bowl spread.
The recipe makes enough to share, making it especially convenient for tailgates, watch parties and family gatherings. Serve it as is for a refreshing alcohol free option everyone can enjoy, or let adults add a splash of vodka to their individual glasses.
Ingredients
4 cups sugar
2 cups hot water
3 cups fresh lemon juice
9 cups cold water
Lemon slices, for garnish
Vodka, optional
Directions
Add the sugar to the hot water and stir until completely dissolved. Pour in the fresh lemon juice and cold water, stirring until everything is well combined.
Chill thoroughly before serving. Pour the lemonade over plenty of ice and garnish each glass with fresh lemon slices.
For an adult version, add 1½ oz vodka to an ice filled glass, top with lemonade and stir.
No matter which colors you’re wearing on Iron Bowl Saturday, there’s something worth raising a glass to: tradition, rivalry and another football season in Alabama.