Mint Julep

2 servings Prep: 5 m Cook: PT0M Total: 5 m Beginner
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Mint Julep
Get your hat ….The Kentucky Derby is on - Mint Juleps are a sell out. Some Mint Julep have sold for as high as $2,000 a drink. If that is too fancy for you, try making your own with bourbon, fresh mint, and sugar. Very easy to do!

Ingredients

2 servings
  • 4 oz Kentucky Bourbon
  • 2 tsp granulated sugar
  • 4 to 6 fresh mint leaves
  • Crushed ice
  • Additional mint sprigs for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Place the mint leaves in the bottom of a cocktail shaker or mixing glass. Pour 2 teaspoons of sugar over the mint leaves.
  2. Using a muddler or pestle, gently muddle (grind) the mint leaves into the sugar to release the mint oils and create a fragrant mixture. You should smell the fresh mint aroma.
  3. Add the 4 oz of bourbon to the shaker.
  4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well for about 15-20 seconds until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
  5. Fill two straight glasses (or traditional silver julep cups if you have them) with crushed ice.
  6. Strain the bourbon mixture over the ice in each glass.
  7. Garnish each glass with a fresh sprig of mint. Serve immediately.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why does my mint julep taste bitter?

A: Over-muddling the mint can release bitter compounds from the leaves. Muddle gently just enough to release the aromatic oils, not to pulverize the leaves. You should bruise the mint, not destroy it.

Q: Can I make this without a cocktail shaker?

A: Yes! You can muddle the mint and sugar directly in the serving glass, add the bourbon, then fill with crushed ice and stir well. It won't be quite as cold, but it will still be delicious.

Tips and Techniques

For the most authentic experience, use crushed or pebble ice rather than cubes - it chills the drink faster and creates that signature frosty exterior on the glass. If using a traditional silver julep cup, hold it by the rim or with a napkin so your hand doesn’t warm the drink.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Kentucky Bourbon: any quality bourbon or rye whiskey
  • granulated sugar: simple syrup
  • fresh mint leaves: spearmint or peppermint

Equipment Needed

  • Cocktail shaker or mixing glass
  • Muddler or pestle
  • Strainer
  • Julep cups or straight glasses

Historical Context

The mint julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1938, with nearly 120,000 served over the Derby weekend each year. The drink’s origins date back to the 18th century South, where it was originally used as a medicinal tonic before becoming a refreshing warm-weather cocktail.