Mint Juleps are synonymous with the Kentucky Derby, and rightly so. My Gram’s recipe was our family’s favorite for as long as I can remember. It’s just as refreshing as it is bracing. Think of a cold bourbon drink enlivened with the fresh taste of sweet mint plus an optional twist of citrus.
A Mint Julep purist will insist that a Julep only contain bourbon, mint, sugar and ice. But I often make our Mint Juleps a refreshing drink choice for the entire summer season by adding just a slice of orange, lemon or lime. So good!
As with any alcoholic drink, you can dial the potency up or down. 1 jigger is a usual “shot” of whiskey but many recipes call for two. I don’t often drink, so I prefer my Mint Juleps with more of this lovely minty-sweet syrup along with an identifiable amount of bourbon. Because, Kentucky Bourbon!
Enjoy Mint Juleps all summer long; don’t think that they are only for the Kentucky Derby. They’re the perfect cocktail for a hot summer evening. If you envision the Kentucky Derby festivities each time, then you’ve understood just a little of the romance that surrounds this Run for the Roses and Kentucky lore.
Kentucky Mint Juleps
My Gram’s recipe was the favorite of my family for as long as I can remember. Her Mint Julep recipe is as refreshing as it is bracing. Think of a cold bourbon drink enlivened with the fresh taste of sweet mint plus an optional twist of citrus.
Ingredients
Instructions
Make the Mint Syrup
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Combine the sugar and water in a medium pot and bring to a boil. Boil until all sugar is dissolved.
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Remove from heat and add mint. Stir well and let cool.
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Drain and pour into a glass jar or plastic container. Refrigerate.
Make the Mint Julep
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Assemble 10 glasses and fill them with 1 to 2 cups of crushed ice each.
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Using a 1.5 ounce measure (one jigger), pour 1.5 ounces of bourbon over the crushed ice.
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Pour 1.5 ounces of mint syrup over the bourbon and crushed ice, then another jigger of bourbon (if desired).
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Using a long spoon, stir gently to mix. Keep stirring until glass begins to frost.
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Garnish with the traditional sprig of mint. Optional garnish: thin slices of citrus fruit of your choice, usually orange or lemon
