Mint Julep – A Kentucky Derby Cocktail

Drinking a mint Julep during the Kentucky Derby is a long standing tradition. May is typically the time when everyone across the country becomes a Mint Julep fan.  Like wearing a big hat to the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep has become a staple drink for most equestrian enthusiasts attending the event.  However, for the rest of the South, it has a long tradition of being sipped on any hot summer day. For me, making a Mint Julep is almost as fun as drinking one. If you have never had the pleasure of drinking one, do try my simple recipe.

Prep time: 20 minutes

Start to Finish: 25 minutes

For the Cocktail:

• 1 1/2 oz. Kentucky Whisky
• 1 oz mint syrup
• Fresh mint for garnish
• 8 oz glass or silver cup filled with crushed ice

For the Mint Syrup:

• 1 cup of sugar
• 1 cup of water
• 1 handful of fresh mint

To make the mint syrup, add the water and the sugar to a small pot and boil for 1 -2 minutes stirring until sugar is dissolved. Add the handful of mint, but before you do give it a good slap to release some of the oils.

Set aside to cool for about 10 minutes. (Syrup can be made a few days ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator for future use.)

To make the cocktail:

Fill an 8-oz glass with crushed ice. Pour in the whisky and give it a good stir. Then top with the mint syrup and a few sprigs of fresh mint.

Enjoy slowly (and responsibly).