Mint Julep

The MINT JULEP is best known as the featured beverage at the Kentucky Derby which runs this Saturday, May 7. There are strong opinions on the correct way to mix a Mint Julep, especially in the U.S. south. The Keet’s Cocktails video link below demonstrates my favorite mix, which is the more common. It’s easy to make and well worth the muddle if you have fresh mint available.

Requirements: bourbon, mint leaves & sprigs, sugar (or simple syrup), crushed ice, water (or club soda)

• 2.25 oz. bourbon (1 jigger & 1 PONY), or up to 3 oz.
• 12 fresh mint leaves
• 1-2 mint sprigs for garnish
• 1 teaspoon water (or club soda)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• crushed ice
• julep cup, Collins glass, or old-fashioned glass

In the bottom of a julep cup or old-fashioned glass, muddle the mint leaves, sugar and water (or club soda). Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice and stir in the bourbon. Fill the rest of the glass with crushed ice and garnish with a mint sprig (or two). It may be served with a straw.

Comments: It’s fine to drink a Mint Julep out of an old-fashioned or Collins glass, but it’s even better to own a set of pewter or silver julep cups if you enjoy the drink frequently. The metal conducts the cold from the crushed ice nicely.

History: The Mint Julep dates back to 1875 when the horse owners brought their bourbon whiskey along with their horses into town. The concoction of bourbon, mint, sugar and water was actually a re-make of earlier juleps which Americans drank with brandy, rum and even scotch.