The Mint Julep is a bourbon cocktail best known for being the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby. It is made with bourbon, fresh mint, and a simple syrup. It is commonly associated with the southern United States, particularly with Kentucky, known for its bourbon production. The history of the Mint Julep can be traced back in the US to the early 19th century.
Centuries ago, there was an Arabic drink called julab, made with water and rose petals. The beverage had a delicate and refreshing scent that people thought would instantly enhance the quality of their lives.” In the Mediterranean, indigenous mint replaced the rose petals and the “mint julep” rose in popularity.
The first recorded mention of the Mint Julep as a cocktail was in 1803, in a diary entry by John Davis, a British traveller who was visiting Virginia. In his diary, Davis describes the Mint Julep as a “dram of spirituous liquor that has mint in it, taken by Virginians in the morning.”
By the mid-19th century, the Mint Julep had become a popular drink in the southern United States, particularly among the upper classes. It was often served at social gatherings and was considered a sign of sophistication and refinement.
In 1938, the Mint Julep became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, the famous horse race annually held in Louisville, Kentucky. It is estimated that over 120,000 Mint Juleps are served at the race each year.
The Mint Julep is traditionally served in a rocks glass or, ideally, in a silver Julep cup. Since bourbon is the only liquid in the drink, you’ll want to use a high-quality bottle you know you love. A slightly higher-proof bourbon in the mid-80s or around 90 will keep the crushed ice from diluting the cocktail too quickly. For the Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve is the only way to go.
The Original Mint Julep
Equipment
- 1 julep cup
- 1 muddler
Ingredients
- 2 oz. bourbon
- 1 tsp. sugar
- 2 tsp. water
- 4-5 sprigs fresh mint
Instructions
- In a julep cup or tall glass, use a muddler to mash the mint leaves, sugar, and water together until the sugar is dissolved and the mint leaves are fragrant.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice.
- Add the bourbon and stir until the glass is frosty.
- Top with more crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
[…] drink most associated with the Kentucky Derby is the Mint Julep, a cocktail made with bourbon, sugar, water, and fresh mint. The Mint Julep has been the official […]