Mint Julep: Crafting the Definitive Derby Day Cocktail

You’ve found the quintessential Southern classic – the Mint Julep. We’re here to guide you through creating this refreshing bourbon-based cocktail that’s been delighting discerning palates since the 18th century. While most know it as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, there’s much more to this sophisticated sipper than its horse racing fame. With our carefully tested recipe and expert tips, you’ll craft a Mint Julep that rivals those served in Louisville’s finest establishments.

A glass of mint julep iced cocktail, garnished with mint leaves, sits on a coaster surrounded by ice and additional mint.

Watch 🎥: How to Make a Kentucky Derby Mint Julep

What Is a Mint Julep Cocktail?

The Mint Julep is a bourbon cocktail featuring fresh mint, sugar (or simple syrup), and crushed ice served in a frosted silver or metal cup. Originally prescribed as a medicinal tonic in the 1700s, it evolved into the iconic Kentucky Derby drink in 1938 when Churchill Downs began serving them in souvenir cups – a tradition that continues with nearly 120,000 juleps sold during Derby weekend each year.

A glass of mint julep with mint leaves sits on a light surface, surrounded by scattered ice cubes and fresh herbs.

What you’ll love about this recipe:

TIMELESS – The perfect balance of bourbon’s warmth with cooling mint creates a refreshing yet sophisticated cocktail suitable for warm afternoons and evening gatherings alike.
SUBTLE – Our method guarantees the mint flavor infuses perfectly without becoming bitter or overpowering, a common mistake in lesser julep recipes.

What You Need to Make a Mint Julep Cocktail

Bourbon: A quality bourbon forms the backbone of this cocktail – we recommend one in the 90-100 proof range for optimal flavor.
Simple Syrup: Provides balanced sweetness that dissolves more effectively than granulated sugar.
Fresh Mint Leaves: Essential for that cooling aroma and flavor; always use fresh, never dried mint.
Crushed Ice: Creates the signature frost on the outside of the cup and properly dilutes the drink.
Mint Sprig: More than decoration, this garnish adds aromatic elements to each sip.

How to Make a Mint Julep Cocktail

Gently muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a julep cup or rocks glass – press just enough to release oils without shredding the leaves.
Add bourbon and fill the glass halfway with crushed ice.
Stir until the outside of the cup begins to frost over, about 30 seconds.
Create a mounded crown of additional crushed ice above the rim and garnish with a generous mint sprig, placed close to the straw for maximum aroma.

Expert Recipe Tips

Tip 1: Slap the mint garnish between your palms before placing it in the drink to release aromatic oils without the bitterness that comes from over-muddling.
Tip 2: For an elevated experience, frost your julep cups in the freezer for 30 minutes before preparing the cocktail.
Tip 3: When selecting bourbon, aim for something with enough proof to stand up to dilution – our testing finds 90-100 proof options like Maker’s Mark or Woodford Reserve work exceptionally well.

A mint julep cocktail in a clear glass with crushed ice and a mint garnish sits on a table amid scattered greenery, with plants in the background.

How to Serve This Derby Day Cocktail

Traditionally served in a silver or metal julep cup, which frosts over beautifully, though a rocks glass works well, too. For a pro move, serve with a short straw placed near the mint garnish, allowing the aromatic experience with each sip. The Mint Julep is perfect for summer gatherings, Derby parties, or anytime you’re seeking a refined yet refreshing bourbon experience.

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Ingredients

2 oz bourbon
½ oz simple syrup
8 –10 fresh mint leaves
Crushed ice
Mint sprig for garnish

Instructions

Lightly muddle mint leaves with simple syrup in a julep cup or rocks glass.
Add bourbon and fill the glass with crushed ice.
Stir until the cup is frosty.
Top with more crushed ice and garnish with a mint sprig.

Video

Recipe FAQs

Can I make a Mint Julep without a julep cup?

Absolutely. While the traditional silver cup provides the optimal frosty exterior, a rocks glass or even a mason jar works well – the key is using plenty of crushed ice and proper muddling technique.

What’s the best bourbon for a Mint Julep?

Select a quality bourbon in the 90-100 proof range that isn’t too expensive (since you’re mixing it) but still offers complex flavor. Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and Buffalo Trace are excellent options that won’t break the bank.

How do I properly muddle mint without making the cocktail bitter?

Gentle pressure is key – you’re trying to express the oils, not shred the leaves. Press and twist lightly with your muddler rather than grinding or pulverizing the mint.

What’s the difference between a Mojito and a Mint Julep?

While both feature mint and sugar, Mojitos use rum instead of bourbon, add lime juice, and finish with soda water. Juleps are spirit-forward with no citrus or carbonation, creating a more contemplative sipping experience.

Can I prepare Mint Juleps in advance for a party?

We recommend preparing your simple syrup and having your ingredients measured, but assemble each julep individually to maintain the proper dilution and that signature frost on the cup.

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