The mint julep stands as a symbol of Southern charm and warm summer days. This classic cocktail brings together bourbon, fresh mint, and crushed ice in a frosty silver cup. A proper mint julep combines 2 ounces of bourbon, 6-8 fresh mint leaves, 1/2 ounce simple syrup, and crushed ice.
The drink gained fame through its connection to the Kentucky Derby, where it became the official cocktail in 1938. Each year, the Derby serves over 120,000 mint juleps during the two-day event. The silver cups used for serving have turned into collectors’ items, with some vintage pieces worth hundreds of dollars.
The name “julep” comes from the Persian word “gulab,” meaning rosewater. While the modern version uses mint, early juleps featured various herbs believed to have healing properties. The drink evolved through the centuries to become the refreshing bourbon-based cocktail enjoyed today.
Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Silver julep cup or highball glass (8-10 oz)
- Lewis bag and mallet (or rolling pin)
- Small sieve
Ingredients
- 2.5 oz bourbon whiskey 90-100 proof
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves plus extra for garnish
- Crushed ice enough to fill the cup
A higher-proof bourbon stands up better to dilution from the ice. Fresh mint makes a big difference – spearmint works great.
Instructions
- Put mint leaves and simple syrup in the cup
- Muddle gently 4-5 times to release oils (don’t tear the leaves)
- Add bourbon
- Fill halfway with crushed ice
- Stir 20-30 seconds
- Add more crushed ice to form a dome on top
- Garnish with 3-4 mint sprigs
Add a short straw and serve
Notes
Tasting Notes
A mint julep starts with sweet notes from the bourbon and simple syrup. The drink has a smooth texture and feels icy cold against the tongue. Each sip brings a fresh burst of mint that stays strong through the end.
The bourbon adds hints of vanilla, caramel, and oak. These warm flavors mix with the cool mint to create a balanced taste. The crushed ice melts slowly, making the drink less strong over time.
The mint aroma fills the nose before each sip. Fresh mint leaves keep releasing their oils as the ice melts, so the scent stays strong. The drink smells clean and refreshing.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Sweet bourbon
- Fresh mint
- Cold ice
- Light sugar
- Subtle oak
The perfect mint julep should not taste too sweet or too strong. The mix of bourbon and simple syrup needs careful measuring to get the right balance. Too much sugar can hide the bourbon’s taste, while too little makes the drink harsh.
Substitute
A mint julep can still taste great without bourbon. Simple swaps create tasty non-alcoholic and alcoholic versions of this drink.
For a non-alcoholic mint julep, replace bourbon with ginger ale or ginger beer. The spicy kick mimics bourbon’s warmth, while keeping the drink family-friendly.
Other spirits can step in for bourbon. Try these options:
- Dark rum
- Rye whiskey
- Aged brandy
- Cognac
To make a lower-alcohol version, mix half bourbon and half ginger ale. This creates a lighter drink that keeps the classic mint julep taste.
No fresh mint? Use 1/4 ounce of mint extract or 1/2 ounce of mint syrup. While not as fresh-tasting as real mint leaves, these options work in a pinch.
Simple syrup can be replaced with:
- Sugar cubes
- Honey
- Agave nectar
- Maple syrup
Each sweetener adds its own flavor to the drink. Try different ones to find your favorite taste.
