The Kentucky Derby Mint Julep is an alcoholic drink made with bourbon whiskey, water, sugar, and mint. The mint, infused with the spirit, gives the drink a fresh, aromatic flavor. Served over crushed ice, the Mint Julep is perfect as a digestif after a dinner party, but it can also be enjoyed during brunch with a few savory appetizers.
Why Do Americans Drink Mint Julep at The Kentucky Derby?
Considered one of the first truly American cocktails, the Mint Julep, created in the early 1800s, was initially prepared with brandy, which could be mixed with sherry, port, or other fortified wines. Later, when it was enriched with crushed ice, the Mint Julep, in its whiskey-based version, the most popular and widespread today, was known as the Whiskey Julep.
Traditionally served in a silver or pewter glass, but also in an old-fashioned glass, the Mint Julep is made with a few simple tools of the trade, such as a bar spoon, the long-handled teaspoon used by bartenders, and the jigger, the typical steel measuring cup.
Fun fact: the Mint Julep is the signature cocktail of the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby, two horse races held since 1875 at Churchill Downs Racetrack, a horse racing track in Louisville, United States. It's estimated that around 120,000 drinks are sold each year during these events.
The mint julep's connection to the Derby is largely thanks to Churchill Downs, where the race is held. The drink was first served at the Derby in 1938, and over time, it became an iconic part of the event’s culture. The cool, refreshing cocktail complements the festive, outdoor atmosphere of the race, and it’s often seen as a way to celebrate both the occasion and Kentucky’s rich bourbon heritage.
Is Mint Julep the Same as Mojito?
No, they're not the same thing! The mint julep is made with bourbon, fresh mint, sugar (or simple syrup), and crushed ice. It’s known for its smooth, rich flavor thanks to the bourbon, and it's typically served in a silver or pewter cup to keep the drink chilled.
The mojito, on the other hand, is a Cuban cocktail made with rum, mint, lime juice, sugar, and club soda. It’s more refreshing and tart due to the lime and soda, offering a lighter, more citrusy flavor profile compared to the bourbon-based mint julep.
Mint Julep Variations
The classic mint julep can be adapted in various ways to suit different tastes. The traditional version uses bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice, served in a silver or pewter cup. For a tropical twist, try the rum mint julep, swapping bourbon for rum, or a gin mint julep, which adds herbal botanicals. Fruit variations are also popular, like the peach mint julep, which incorporates peach purée or nectar, and the strawberry mint julep, where fresh strawberries are muddled into the mix. For a fall-inspired option, try the apple mint julep, made with apple cider or juice. You can even add some sparkle with a sparkling mint julep, which includes sparkling water or champagne, or create a bourbon and rye mint julep for a spicier kick.
Ingredients
How to Make the Kentucky Derby Mint Julep
To prepare the Mint Julep, first pour the water into a glass and then add the granulated sugar and mix until completely dissolved.
To prepare the Mint Julep, first pour the water into a glass and then add the granulated sugar and mix until completely dissolved.
Add the whiskey.
Add the whiskey.
Add a sprig of fresh mint, mix carefully with a bar spoon and leave everything to infuse for a few minutes.
Add a sprig of fresh mint, mix carefully with a bar spoon and leave everything to infuse for a few minutes.
Finish with some crushed ice.
Finish with some crushed ice.
Wait a few seconds before serving: this way the ice will melt slightly and the cocktail will be fresher.
Wait a few seconds before serving: this way the ice will melt slightly and the cocktail will be fresher.
Then add more crushed ice, complete with more mint leaves, bring to the table and serve.
Then add more crushed ice, complete with more mint leaves, bring to the table and serve.
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