A mint julep punch brings the iconic Kentucky Derby cocktail to party-size proportions. This crowd-pleasing drink combines bourbon, fresh mint, and simple syrup in a large format that serves 8-10 people.
Making mint julep punch takes just 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll need only 5 basic ingredients: bourbon whiskey, fresh mint leaves, simple syrup, club soda, and crushed ice. The recipe can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to serve.
Perfect for Derby Day parties, summer gatherings, or any festive occasion, this punch version maintains the refreshing mint and bourbon flavors of the classic cocktail while making it easy to serve a group. The addition of bubbly club soda gives it an effervescent twist that guests love.
Mint Julep Punch Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Large punch bowl (3-gallon capacity)
- Long-handled wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ice bucket
- Collins glasses
- Small strainer
- Muddler
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh mint leaves plus extra for garnish
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 750 ml Kentucky bourbon
- 4 cups cold water
- Crushed ice
- Fresh mint sprigs for garnish
- Club soda optional
Instructions
- Start by making mint simple syrup. Mix sugar and 1 cup water in a saucepan. Heat until the sugar dissolves. Then, add 1 cup mint leaves and let steep for 15 minutes.
- Strain the syrup and let it cool completely.
- Pour bourbon into the punch bowl. Then, add the cooled mint syrup and 4 cups cold water. Stir well.
- Add remaining mint leaves to the punch and gently press with a wooden spoon to release oils.
- Fill glasses with crushed ice. Pour punch over ice and top with a splash of club soda if desired.
- Garnish each glass with fresh mint sprigs.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Mint Julep Punch has a bright, sweet, and minty aroma that fills the glass. Fresh mint leaves create a cooling sensation on the nose.
This punch version of the classic cocktail brings a perfect balance of bourbon and mint. The sweetness from the simple syrup complements the oak and vanilla notes of the bourbon without being too sugary.
Each sip starts with a crisp mint flavor that gives way to the warm, rich bourbon. The crushed ice helps blend the flavors while keeping the drink cold and refreshing.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Fresh mint (cooling)
- Bourbon (warm, oaky)
- Simple syrup (sweet)
- Vanilla undertones
- Light citrus hints
The texture is smooth and light, with tiny ice crystals adding a pleasant chill. As the ice melts, the drink becomes more mellow but keeps its mint-forward character.
The finish leaves a clean, cool sensation with lingering bourbon warmth. The mint stays present but gentle, making you want to take another sip.
Substitute
Want to make mint julep punch without bourbon? There are several tasty alternatives that work well in this recipe.
You can make an excellent swap for bourbon with dark rum. The rich, molasses notes blend nicely with fresh mint and sugar syrup.
Brandy offers a fruity twist on the classic. Choose a VS or VSOP cognac for best results.
For a non-alcoholic version, use strong black tea. Steep the tea until dark and cool it before mixing. The tannins provide complexity similar to aged spirits.
Quick Tips for Substitutions:
- Use the same amount of substitute as bourbon called for
- Keep other ingredients and ratios the same
- Adjust sugar to taste, as some substitutes are sweeter
- Chill all ingredients well before mixing
These alternatives maintain the drink’s refreshing character while creating new flavor combinations. The mint and sugar remain key elements that tie everything together.
