Classics Series: Mint Julep

The Mint Julep has been promoted by the Kentucky Derby since 1938 and is a summer staple in the South. Mint Juleps were traditionally served in silver cups in order for frost to form on the outside of the cup, but a nice alternative is to use a copper-platted Moscow Mule mug since you’ll achieve a similar frosted appearance. These are best enjoyed while sitting outside on a hot summer day!

Classic Mint Julep (1 serving)

• 2 oz. of bourbon
• 0.25 oz. of 2:1 simple syrup (2 cups of sugar to 1 cup of boiling water, mix directly in a mason jar)
• 16 spearmint leaves
• Crushed ice

Equipment

• Moscow Mule mug
• Jigger
• Bar spoon
• Blender to make crushed ice

Directions

1. Blend 4 cups of ice until the pieces of ice are < 1 cm each
2. In the Moscow Mule mug, add mint leaves and simple syrup
3. With the flat end of the bar spoon, mash the mint leaves until you can smell the spearmint
4. Add bourbon and stir with the back of the spoon
5. Add 1 handful of crushed ice and stir
6. Add ice until 3/4 of the mug is filled and stir
7. Continue adding ice until you form a small dome that goes above the rim of the mug
8. For garnish, hit 3 or 4 sprigs of mint against the palm of your hand and add to the crushed ice

Cheers!