Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe

The Mint Julep is a bourbon based cocktail and traditional beverage of the Kentucky Derby.

The Mint Julep as we know it definitely originated in the American South in the late 18th to early 19th century. Back then, sweet infusions of medicine (known as juleps) were doled out as treatments for various ailments. The Mint Julep in particular involved mint steeped with spirituous liquor as a stomach remedy.

At some point folks started drinking Mint Juleps recreationally, mixing brandy, rum, and even gin into their sweet, minty concoctions. Bourbon became the standard liquor component, being cheaper and more readily available than other imported spirits. In the early 20th century the Mint Julep became the official drink of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby.

The Mint Julep has a minty, refreshing, herbaceous aroma and a sweet, rich bourbon flavor. As the ice melts the flavors change and intermingle—definitely a cocktail to be savored over time.

The Mint Julep is already perfect, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun with it.

• Muddling fresh fruits such as apples, blackberries, or peaches with the mint fruity freshness.
• For a sharp, zesty kick, try muddling fresh ginger along with the mint.
• Try using simple syrups infused with fruits, berries, or fresh herbs, such as the premium flavored syrups offered by Cocktail Artist.
• Mint Juleps were historically made with different spirits, so feel free to experiment using brandy, rum, or gin without fear of offending any purists.

• If bourbon is unavailable (or isn’t your thing), consider using rye whiskey, brandy, gin, or rum (see Variations above).
• Substitute simple syrup with agave nectar. Consider reducing the amount used, as agave nectar is very sweet.
• Honey may be used as an alternative to simple syrup. Use a mixture of equal parts honey and water to reduce the honey’s thick viscosity.

The Mint Julep is a relaxing sipper, making it the perfect cocktail for relaxing daytime activities. Consider carefully before adding to the menu however, as crushing ice for each cocktail can get pretty labor-intensive If planning to serve Mint Juleps at your next event, we recommend either providing a ready supply of crushed ice or recruiting a dedicated bartender to make the cocktails for you.

• Kentucky Derby Parties: The traditional cocktail of Churchill Downs, no Kentucky Derby viewing party is complete without Mint Juleps.
• Outdoor formal events/garden parties: bright silver cups, warm sunshine, big floppy sun hats, seersucker suits—you get the idea.
• Cookouts and barbecues: Mint Juleps are perfect for any relaxed outdoor cooking affair.
• Sitting on the porch: That’s it. Just sitting on the porch.

• Southern food, like fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits, boiled peanuts, pimento cheese, barbecue, etc.
• Burgoo, a spicy, meaty stew traditionally served at the Kentucky Derby.
• Dessert, especially pecan pie or peach cobbler.

Always enjoy Mint Juleps responsibly!