The Mint Julep is one of the most beloved classic bourbon cocktails and is the traditional cocktail for Kentucky Derby Day cocktail. All you need to make this southern classic is bourbon, simple syrup, mint, crushed ice. Of course, part of the fun of the Mint Julep is the iconic julep. As this has become the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, our favorite base for Mint Juleps is Woodford Reserve.
Like many cocktails, the Mint Julep was originally crafted in the late 1700s for medicinal purposes to settle the stomach. The modern Mint Julep was popularized 1820s at the Quoit Club in Richmond, Virginia by Jasper Crouch, who identified himself as a Free Person of Color. In 1938, the Mint Julep became the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs and since then has been considered a staple of every Derby celebration.
“As the presenting sponsor of The Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve is the perfect base for your Mint Julep cocktail on race day,” says Woodford Reserve Brand Ambassador Michael Toscano. “While a lot of bourbon can taste sweet, the high rye content (18%) in Woodford Reserve provides a great spice note to balance the sweetness of this classic cocktail. The fresh mint aroma partnered with the subtle citrus and nutty notes found in Woodford make it the perfect partner for this Kentucky Derby staple.”
Mint Julep with Woodford Reserve
- 2 oz Woodford Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- 0.5 oz Simple Syrup
- Fresh Mint
- Crushed Ice
- Powdered Sugar (optional)
Express the essential oils in a handful of mint leaves and rub them inside a julep glass. Add to the same glass the simple syrup, bourbon and pack with crushed (pebbled) ice. Stir. Top with more crushed ice, and garnish with a fresh mint sprig and sprinkle powdered sugar.
For more about Woodford Reserve, visit woodfordreserve.com and on IG @woodfordreserve
Our Best Stories Delivered Daily
