🌿 Mint Julep

The official drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1938

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Place the mint leaves in the bottom of a julep cup or rocks glass.
  2. Add the simple syrup and gently muddle the mint. Don't over-muddle – just press enough to release the oils.
  3. Pack the glass tightly with crushed ice.
  4. Pour the bourbon over the ice.
  5. Stir briefly, then add more crushed ice to form a dome on top.
  6. Slap a fresh mint sprig between your palms to release its aroma, then place it in the drink as a garnish.
  7. Add a short straw so you can smell the mint as you sip.

Pro Tips

🧊 Crushed Ice is Key

The crushed ice is essential for a proper julep. It chills the drink quickly and creates that beautiful frost on a silver julep cup.

🌿 Mint Handling

Be gentle with the mint! Over-muddling releases bitter compounds from the stems. Just a few gentle presses is all you need.

🏆 Traditional Serving

For authenticity, serve in a silver or pewter julep cup. The metal conducts cold beautifully and frosts on the outside.

← Back to Bourbon Cocktails