What Exactly is the Mint Julep?
The Mint Julep is synonymous with the Kentucky Derby, and it's more than just a drink—it's a symbol of Southern hospitality and tradition. Since 1938, the Mint Julep has been the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, with more than 120,000 served at Churchill Downs during the event. The Mint Julep is a refreshingly simple mix of bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice, making it a cooling choice for the warm days of May. The drink’s relationship with bourbon is key, as the spirit’s rich, caramel notes perfectly balance the bright freshness of the mint, making it an ideal cocktail for warm-weather celebrations.
The Best Occasions to Enjoy Mint Juleps
While the Mint Julep can be enjoyed year-round, it truly shines during the spring and summer months. Whether you're watching the Kentucky Derby or enjoying a backyard barbecue, this cocktail brings a refreshing and celebratory feel to any gathering. Its cooling, mint-forward taste makes it a great option for sipping on a hot day, especially when paired with outdoor events like horse races, picnics, or garden parties.
How to Make It
Here’s a classic Mint Julep recipe:
- Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 8 fresh mint leaves
- 1 tsp sugar (or simple syrup)
- Crushed ice
- Mint sprigs for garnish
- Directions:
- Muddle the mint leaves and sugar (or simple syrup) in a glass until the mint releases its flavor.
- Fill the glass with crushed ice and pour in the bourbon.
- Stir until the glass is frosty, then garnish with a sprig of mint.
Recipe Credit: This recipe is widely recognized and available on Esquire's Cocktail Recipe Guide.
What People Are Saying about Mint Juleps
The Mint Julep has earned rave reviews online. One reviewer on Yelp describes it as “cool, refreshing, and the perfect balance of bourbon and mint.” Many fans love the simplicity of the cocktail, but others note that getting the balance of sweetness just right can take some practice. The most frequent compliment is how the drink combines bourbon’s rich flavor with mint's freshness, making it ideal for outdoor events.
You might find that people love the simplicity and timelessness of the Mint Julep. Another quote from Yelp describes it as “the ultimate Derby drink—sweet, strong, and minty, just like the race itself.”
Here's a Fun Fact
Did you know that over 10,000 bottles of bourbon are used at the Kentucky Derby each year to create these Mint Juleps? Churchill Downs even serves a $1,000 version of the drink made with Woodford Reserve and adorned with a sterling silver cup.
If you’re interested in learning more about investing in bourbon barrels, Rickhouse Holding Company specializes in sourcing premium young bourbon that grows in value as it ages. Just as the Mint Julep becomes a richer experience when crafted with aged bourbon, investing in bourbon barrels offers similar long-term rewards. With demand for bourbon continuing to rise, and a significant amount of it being bottled around four years old, holding onto these barrels allows us to deliver strong returns for our investors. Investing with Rickhouse Holding Company lets you enjoy the prime appreciation years of bourbon, just as you enjoy the rich flavors in every Mint Julep.
