How to Make a Mint Julep, the Drink of the Kentucky Derby

In 1938, the mint julep became the signature drink of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby. The drink was sold for 75 cents and even included a souvenir glass. The mint julep is still enjoyed today by spectators at the Kentucky Derby.

To make a mint julep, follow this easy recipe that serves four:

Ingredients:

1 cup water

1 cup white sugar

1/2 cup fresh spearmint leaves, chopped

2 cups bourbon

4 small branches of spearmint

Crushed or shaved ice

4 chilled silver goblets

Directions:

Mix together the water, sugar and spearmint leaves in a small pot. Bring this mixture to a boil on your stove top, stirring to make sure that the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat. Transfer the mint mixture to a plastic storage container and cover. Place in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Remove from the refrigerator and strain the mint mixture to eliminate the spearmint leaves. Place crushed or shaved ice in 4 chilled silver goblets. Pour ¼ cup of the mint mixture and ½ cup bourbon into each goblet. Adjust the amounts to make the mint julep stronger or weaker. Gently mix and add a mint branch as a garnish.

But if you order a mint julep at the Kentucky Derby, you won't get this homemade version. Churchill Downs serves Early Times Mint Julep Cocktail, a ready-made cocktail which is the official mint julep of the Kentucky Derby.

Resources:

http://www.kentuckyderby.com/

Personal knowledge