Mint Julep

The classic Mint Julep is most well known because of its association with the famous Kentucky Derby. In fact, the Mint Julep has been dubbed the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby for almost a century. The only thing that’s probably more recognizable is the hats worn during the annual horse race!

Why this recipe works

The Derby is held on the first Saturday in May every year. During a Derby weekend at Churchill Downs, over 120,000 Mint Juleps will be served! In fact, you can buy a mint julep, or you can buy a limited edition $1,000 mint julep! The difference? About 100 silver julep cups, each dressed up with a rose petal from the winning horse’s garland are filled. The proceeds go to charity, of course!

The recipe for a mint julep is quite straightforward. A mixture of rich Kentucky bourbon, muddled mint leaves, and simple syrup comes together in a cup with ice to make a refreshingly crisp sipper during the hot summer months.

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

BOURBON – A mid-tier bottle of bourbon will do the trick here, especially one with notes of vanilla and caramel. If you want to be really authentic, get yourself a bottle of Woodford Reserve bourbon, the whiskey used at the Kentucky Derby.

SYRUP – Note that we’ve used a bottle of simple syrup, which is easier than boiling and cooling your own, plus it dissolves quickly into the drink. You can also make a mint simple syrup by mixing together 1 cup each of sugar, water, and fresh mint leaves. Simply bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for a minute. Remove it from the heat and let it steep for about 30 minutes. Strain out the mint leaves and store in a jar. This might be a great solution if you plan on making many mint juleps for a derby party!

MINT – A light muddling will extract the oil from the leaves, but working them too much will make your drink taste similar to toothpaste. Then, garnish with additional mint leaves, inserting the stem into the drink. Much of the mint’s flavor comes from the stem.

How to Make a Mint 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.

1. Add mint leaves and simple syrup to a glass.
2. Gently muddle the mint leaves in the syrup, don’t crush them too much.
3. Fill glass with crushed ice.
4. Pour bourbon over ice and mix until the glass is chilled.
5. Garnish with mint leaves, inserting the stem into the drink. Much of the mint’s flavor comes from the stem.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

If you’ve never tried a mint julep, it’s important to note that it’s not a fruity summer drink like a mojito. Pretty much the only liquid in this drink is straight bourbon whiskey. However, you can sweeten it by adding extra simple syrup to taste.

A bitter mint julep is likely from over-muddled mint. You only need to muddle it gently, to help release the oils.

Serving Suggestions

You can make this Mint Julep recipe at home and serve it in an old fashioned glass, like a highball or rock glass, garnished with mint. If you’re feeling especially festive, grab yourself some silver julep cups!

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