The Mint Julep is one of my all time favourite classic southern cocktails; trust me you definitely want to add this into your home bartending repertoire. And don’t worry, this classic cocktail is actually very easy to make and only requires a few ingredients. The key ingredients are: some bourbon, sugar (or simple syrup), fresh mint leaves and ice.
How Important is the Ice?
But what makes this cocktail work is the requirement of crushed ice. Other forms of ice just won’t create the same effect (or flavours). If you don’t have an ice maker in your fridge that crushes ice, you can opt for a few different options.
a) Ice Pellets: I picked up a great ice tray that makes the perfect teeny tiny ice cubes. These small ice pellets will melt quicker than large cubes and give the Mint Julep the flavours it needs.
b) Invest in the KitchenAid Shave Ice attachment. This is a game changer. And my new go-to for all my crushed iced needs – from Mint Juleps to homemade Snow Cones. It is perfection and easy to use.
And What about the Bourbon?
Now some people will say that just about any Bourbon will do. And to be totally transparent, in a pinch I would agree with them. Further, you could even opt for some Whisky if you prefer, just don’t mention this faux pas to your Southern friends). But if you want to keep it classic, you must use a high quality Southern Bourbon. My go-to these days is Rabbit Hole ; a small batch distillery in Louisville (Kentucky). Their Cavehill Kentucky Bourbon is perfect for this cocktail with notes of orange, honey, fresh mint and toasted grain. It is the perfect bourbon for a mint julep.
Finally, Where to Find the Perfect Julep Cups
Traditionally, Mint Juleps are served in silver or pewter cups, which can be rather expensive. But not to worry, there are many modern versions of these cups that fit the budget. I opted for some gold metal cups in the traditional shape but you can also make a mint julep in any tall glass. Although the metal cup does keep it nice and cold longer.
Pop Culture Fact: The Mint Julep is the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby, which has helped propel the cocktail’s popularity. Tens of thousands of Mint Juleps are served at Churchill Downs in Louisville, and countless more are enjoyed by fans watching the race throughout the country. With a balance of sweet, smoky, and herbal flavours, the Mint Julep is delicious all year long.
So now what I have whet your appetite for a Mint Julep, here’s how to make it.
Traditional Mint Julep Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 to 5 mint sprigs, leaves only
- 2 sugar cubes, or 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 2 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
- Mint sprig, for garnish
Directions:
- Place the mint leaves and sugar cubes (or simple syrup) in a collins glass or mint julep cup.
- Muddle to dissolve the sugar and release the oils and aromatics in the mint.
- Add in your Bourbon.
- Give it a stir.
- Using the KitchenAid Shave Ice attachment, fill glass with shaved ice. Stir.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and straw.
- Enjoy responsibly.