Cocktail Recipe
The Derby Classic
The Mint Julep
♥
The only drink that belongs in your hand on the first Saturday in May. And honestly, any Saturday after that.
Ingredients
- 2 oz good bourbon
- Woodford Reserve or Maker's Mark
- 8 to 10 fresh mint leaves
- ½ oz simple syrup
- Crushed or pebble ice
- Fresh mint sprig for garnish
For good taste, always
- Slap the mint sprig against your palm before garnishing to release the oils
- Use pebble or crushed ice only, never cubed
- A tiny splash of vanilla bean simple syrup adds a depth that people will ask about
- Always serve in silver cups for that East Hampton meets Kentucky Derby feel
Instructions
- Gently muddle mint and simple syrup in a chilled julep cup. Be gentle — over-muddling makes the mint bitter.
- Add bourbon and stir briefly to combine.
- Fill the cup completely with crushed ice.
- Stir slowly until the outside of the cup gets frosty.
- Top with more crushed ice and garnish with a generous mint bouquet.
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