A mint julep brings the charm of Kentucky Derby celebrations right to your glass.
This refreshing cocktail combines bourbon whiskey, fresh mint leaves, simple syrup, and crushed ice for a cool and minty drink perfect for warm afternoons.
The mint julep started as a morning drink in the 1700s when farmers used it to start their day. It gained fame at the Kentucky Derby in 1938 and became the race’s official drink, with more than 120,000 mint juleps served during each Derby weekend.
Making this drink at home takes just a few basic ingredients and simple steps.
The secret lies in gently muddling fresh mint leaves to release their oils without turning them bitter.
A proper mint julep served in a silver or pewter cup gets extra cold and develops a nice frost on the outside.
Mint Julep Refresh Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Silver julep cup or highball glass
- Cocktail muddler
- Bar spoon
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Ice crusher or Lewis bag with mallet
- Fine-mesh strainer
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2 oz club soda
- Crushed ice
- Optional: 1/4 oz peach liqueur
Instructions
- Place mint leaves in the bottom of your julep cup or highball glass.
- Add simple syrup and gently muddle the mint leaves to release their oils.
- Pour in the bourbon and optional peach liqueur.
- Fill the glass 3/4 full with crushed ice.
- Stir the mixture with a bar spoon for 30 seconds to chill.
- Top with club soda and add more crushed ice to create a mounded top.
- Garnish with fresh mint sprigs and serve with a short straw.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Mint Julep Refresh offers a bright and cooling taste experience. Sweet bourbon notes blend with fresh mint and sugar to create a balanced drink.
The first sip brings forward the bourbon’s vanilla and caramel flavors. Cold crushed ice softens the alcohol bite while keeping the drink crisp and refreshing.
Fresh mint adds a clean, garden-like aroma that matches well with the sweetness. The sugar syrup rounds out any sharp edges and creates a smooth mouthfeel.
Key flavor notes:
- Sweet bourbon
- Fresh mint
- Light sugar
- Cooling ice
The drink starts sweet and ends with a gentle bourbon warmth. Its simple flavor profile makes it perfect for hot summer days or anytime a cool, minty cocktail sounds good.
Each sip tastes slightly different as the ice melts and mingles with the other ingredients. The mint becomes more pronounced over time, while the bourbon notes grow softer.
Substitute
The classic mint julep calls for bourbon whiskey. However, several spirits can work well in its place.
Rye whiskey offers a spicier take on the drink, while Tennessee whiskey adds a sweeter touch.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace bourbon with ginger ale or apple juice. Mix these with mint simple syrup and crushed ice to keep the drink’s signature refreshing taste.
Alternative spirits for mint juleps:
- Brandy
- Dark rum
- Irish whiskey
- Canadian whiskey
White rum or vodka can work too, though they change the drink’s character quite a bit. These lighter spirits need extra mint and simple syrup to maintain the cocktail’s rich flavor profile.
Some people swap regular simple syrup for flavored versions. Popular choices include:
- Honey syrup
- Maple syrup
- Agave nectar
For a unique twist, try adding 1/4 ounce of peach liqueur or elderflower liqueur to the mix. These additions bring new depth while keeping the drink’s core identity.
