Ring in the new year with a celebratory fizzy julep. This cocktail is a light and refreshing variation of the classic mint julep with a bubbly surprise.

Two Fizzy Julep cocktails with extra champagne in the background

Why this recipe works

A fizzy julep, also known as a sparkling mint julep, is more or less a classic mint julep with the addition of bubbly champagne. Muddled mint, a dash of sugar, a kick of bourbon, and a touch of fizz from the champagne create an enticing cocktail that’s perfectly crafted for celebrations. Grab your party hats (or derby hats) and let’s get started.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

CHAMPAGNE – Use your favorite type of champagne here. We like to grab the mini bottles which are the perfect serving size for two cocktails. Feel free to substitute with prosecco or sparkling wine. If you want the bubbly without the alcohol, try club soda or Sprite.

BOURBON – If you want to get fancy with it, pick up some Woodford Reserve, which is the official bourbon used in mint juleps at the Kentucky Derby. However, any brand of bourbon will do the trick.

SUGAR – This cocktail is fairly strong, given the fact that it’s mainly bourbon and a splash of champagne which is why we add a small teaspoon of sugar to the mix. Just enough to help balance everything together. You can substitute the sugar with simple syrup or opt to leave it out altogether.

How to Make a Fizzy Julep

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

Place mint in the bottom of your cocktail shaker and muddle.
Add ice and bourbon. Shake well until fully chilled, about 1 minute.
Strain and pour into two champagne flutes.
Top with champagne and additional mint for garnish. Serve.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Can I make this a mocktail?

Yes, you can make a mocktail fizzy julep by using ginger ale or non-alcoholic bourbon. Substitute both the bourbon and the champagne with ginger ale, or use half ginger ale and half club soda (or sparkling water/alcohol-free sparkling wine).

Two Fizzy Julep cocktails on a wooden board

Serving Suggestions

We’re swapping the classic metal mint julep cups for champagne flutes in this fizzy julep recipe. You can, however, use any kind of serving glass you have on hand. Garnish with a sprig of mint and enjoy.

More Cocktail Recipes

Bellini
French 75
Cotton Candy Champagne
New Years Champagne Cocktail

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Original recipe courtesy of SugarSpiceandGlitter. This post originally appeared here on December 20, 2016 and has since been updated with new photos and expert tips.