Classic Mint Julep
Recipe: Classic Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is known for being served on Derby Day, but it's refreshing any time of the year. And you don't have to be at Churchill Downs to enjoy one...try this delicious recipe at home with one of our Bourbon recommendations!
Classic Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon whiskey
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves, plus more for garnish
- crushed ice
Instructions
- Prepare the Mint Leaves: Take 6-8 fresh mint leaves and gently muddle them in the bottom of a Julep cup or a rocks glass. Muddling helps release the oils and aroma of the mint.
- Add the Simple Syrup: Pour 1/2 oz (15 ml) of simple syrup into the glass with the muddled mint leaves. Simple syrup is a mixture of equal parts sugar and water, dissolved together. You can adjust the amount of syrup according to your desired level of sweetness.
- Add the Bourbon: Pour 2 oz (60 ml) of bourbon whiskey into the glass over the mint leaves and simple syrup. Use a good quality bourbon for the best flavor.
- Fill with Crushed Ice: Fill the glass with crushed ice, packing it tightly to the top. You can crush ice using a blender, Lewis bag, or by placing ice cubes in a clean kitchen towel and smashing them with a rolling pin.
- Stir: Gently stir the ingredients together with a bar spoon or a long-handled spoon. This helps chill the drink and mix the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish your Mint Julep with a fresh mint sprig. Slap the mint sprig gently between your hands before placing it in the drink to release its aromatic oils. Your Mint Julep is now ready to be served!