The mint julep smash puts a fresh spin on a classic Southern cocktail. A mix of crushed mint, sweet bourbon, and ice creates a drink perfect for hot summer days. This refreshing cocktail takes less than 5 minutes to make and needs only 4 basic ingredients.
The drink comes from Kentucky, where it became famous as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby horse race in 1938. People drink around 120,000 mint juleps during the two-day Derby event each year.
The mint julep smash adds muddled citrus to the basic recipe. The citrus gives the drink extra tang and makes it more modern than the traditional version.
The mix of mint, citrus, and bourbon creates a balanced cocktail that works well for parties or backyard gatherings.
Mint Julep Smash Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Julep cup or rocks glass
- Muddler
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
- Ice crusher or Lewis bag
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Small mallet
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon whiskey
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Crushed ice
- Fresh mint sprig for garnish
Instructions
- Place mint leaves in the julep cup or rocks glass.
- Add simple syrup to the glass.
- Gently muddle the mint leaves with the syrup to release oils. Don’t over-muddle or the mint will taste bitter.
- Fill the glass halfway with crushed ice.
- Pour in the bourbon.
- Add more crushed ice until the glass is full.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon until the glass frosts.
- Top with more crushed ice to form a dome.
- Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Mint Julep Smash greets the nose with bright, fresh mint aromas mixed with sweet bourbon notes. The crushed ice helps release the mint oils, creating an inviting scent.
Each sip starts with a wave of cold bourbon, softened by simple syrup. The mint flavor spreads across the tongue, creating a cooling sensation that balances the warmth of the alcohol.
The drink has a smooth, medium-bodied texture. The crushed ice slowly melts, gradually changing the drink’s strength and keeping it refreshing throughout.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Primary: Fresh mint, bourbon
- Secondary: Sweet syrup, oak
- Finish: Cool mint, light bourbon warmth
The finish leaves a pleasant mint tingle with subtle bourbon oak notes. These flavors stay on the palate for several minutes after each sip.
The drink changes character as the ice melts. It starts bold and spirit-forward, then becomes more mellow and refreshing over time.
Temperature Note: Best enjoyed very cold, between 32-34°F (0-1°C). The drink loses its charm if it gets too warm.
Substitute
A mint julep smash can be made with several different spirits when bourbon isn’t available.
Vodka creates a lighter version, while dark rum adds rich caramel notes to the drink.
For non-alcoholic options, apple juice or ginger ale work well.
Mix these with fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice to keep the classic mint julep feel.
The traditional simple syrup can be swapped for honey or agave nectar.
Each sweetener brings its own flavor to the drink while maintaining the right balance.
Fresh herbs can replace mint in this cocktail.
Try basil or lemon verbena for a different take on the classic recipe.
These herbs mix well with the sweetener and spirit choices.
Alternative spirits:
- Vodka
- Dark rum
- Light rum
- Brandy
- Irish whiskey
Non-alcoholic options:
- Apple juice
- Ginger ale
- Sparkling water
- Green tea
- Lemonade
If fresh mint leaves aren’t available, mint extract can work in small amounts.
Start with 2-3 drops per drink and adjust to taste.
