Hey, y'all! There's nothing more iconic to the Commonwealth than a classic Kentucky Mint Julep. It's the most popular drink served at Churchill Downs and is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. Needless to say, it is engrained in our culture.

The best part? A Kentucky Mint Julep is delicious all year long, not just during Derby season!

Kentucky Mint Julep

Kentucky Mint Julep Ingredients

• 2.5 oz Kentucky Bourbon
• ¾ oz Simple Syrup
• 4-5 Mint Leaves more for garnish
• Crushed Ice

How to Make a Kentucky Mint Julep

• In the bottom of a Derby glass, add simple syrup + 4-5 mint leaves. Muddle.
• Liberally fill glass with crushed ice.
• Add bourbon.
• Stir, garnish with mint, and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

The History of the Kentucky Mint Julep

The Mint Julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1938. However, its history is much more expansive.

It was first mentioned in print in 1803; It’s also said that KY Senator Henry Clay made the drink popular in Washington, D.C. at the Round Robin Bar around 1850.

The notoriety doesn’t end there, either — many presidents have fancied the Mint Julep and many writers have made them popular in their works, such as novelists Margaret Mitchell and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Did You Know?

Each year, almost 120,000 Mint Juleps are served over the two-day period of Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby weekend at Churchill Downs Racetrack. That’s a feat that requires more than 10,000 bottles of Old Forester Mint Julep Ready-to-Serve Cocktail, 1,000 pounds of freshly harvested mint, and 60,000 pounds of ice.

Other Recipes You'll Love

1. Blackberry Mint Julep Margarita
2. Oaks Lily Cocktail
3. Bourbon Sweet Tea Cocktail

Kentucky Mint Julep Recipe

Y'all come back now, ya hear?

My best,

JC

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