How To Make the Perfect Mint Julep (Easy & Refreshing)
Red roses, elaborate hats, bets, and bourbon… it can only mean one thing: the Kentucky Derby.
And if there’s one drink that defines this legendary event, it’s the Mint Julep.
This refreshing, ice-cold cocktail has been the official drink of the Derby since 1939, and for good reason. It’s crisp, minty, slightly sweet, and perfectly balanced with bold bourbon. Basically, it’s the drink you want in hand on a warm, sunny day.
Fun fact: between the Kentucky Oaks and Derby Day, nearly 120,000 Mint Juleps are served at Churchill Downs. That requires over:
- 10,000 bottles of bourbon
- 1,000 pounds of fresh mint
- 60,000 pounds of ice
…which sounds like a very fun (and slightly rough) weekend.
A Cocktail With Global Roots
Surprisingly, the Mint Julep didn’t actually originate in Kentucky.
Its roots trace back to the Middle East, where a drink called “julab” (made with rosewater) was used for medicinal purposes. The word “julep” itself comes from this Arabic origin.
As the drink traveled through the Mediterranean, mint replaced rose petals, and eventually, the Mint Julep as we know it was born.
By the 18th century, it made its way to America, where it evolved into a morning tonic of sorts (yes, really). It was believed to:
- soothe aches
- aid digestion
- “wake you up”
Basically… the original wellness drink
Derby Day Food Pairings
Horse racing is great… but let’s be honest, we’re here for the food and drinks. Serve your Mint Julep with:
- Deviled eggs
- Pimento cheese
- Crab dip
- BBQ or burnt ends
Fun Twists To Try
My Go-To Kitchen Staples
- Julep cups – for that iconic frosty finish and authentic presentation
- Nugget ice maker – the ultimate upgrade (trust me, it makes ALL the difference)
- Cocktail muddler & bar spoon – gently releases mint oils without over-crushing
- Glass pitcher – ideal for batching juleps for a party
Why This Cocktail Never Gets Old
The Mint Julep is more than just a Derby Day tradition, it’s a timeless summer cocktail.
It’s:
✔ refreshing
✔ simple
✔ iconic
✔ easy to make
✔ perfect for entertaining
So whether you’re hosting a full-on Derby party or just enjoying a sunny afternoon, this is one cocktail that always delivers.
Cheers!
Classic Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 8 mint leaves plus springs for garnish
- 1/2 ounce Simple Syrup
- 2 ounces bourbon I recommend Woodford Reserve
- Nugget or crushed ice
- Brown Sugar optional
Mocktail
- Use iced tea instead of bourbon
Instructions
- Chill the julep cup hours in advance or overnight (*optional: rim the cup with brown sugar for a fun twist)
- Pack cup with crushed ice
- In a mixing glass, combine mint, simple syrup and bourbon
- Lightly bruise mint leaves with a muddler, strain contents into julep cup
- Garnish with 3 generous sprigs of mint (Make sure to slap mint and insert a straw into the ice near mint)
- Top with additional crushed ice and Enjoy!
- Don’t forget to always use a straw (eco-friendly of course)
