Mint Julep
Bourbon, mint and sugar served over abundant crushed ice.
Drink details
Glass
Julep Cup
Ice
Crushed
Method
Built
Strength
Strong
Servings
1
Recipe
Ingredients
Bourbon
60 ml
Sugar
Powdered
1 tsp
Mint
Fresh
3 sprigs
Water
2 tsp
Garnish
Mint
Fresh
1 sprig
Rating
Rate this drink
Method
Preparation
- 1
Gently muddle the mint sprigs with the powdered sugar and water in the Julep Cup.
- 2
Fill the cup with crushed ice, add the Bourbon and stir until the cup frosts.
- 3
Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
About the Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a classic American whiskey cocktail made with bourbon, mint and sugar, traditionally served over a large amount of crushed ice. The simple recipe allows bourbon to remain prominent while mint contributes fresh herbal aroma and syrup provides restrained sweetness. As the crushed ice slowly melts, the drink becomes colder and more diluted, gradually softening the whiskey. The Mint Julep is especially associated with warm weather and the Kentucky Derby.
What does a Mint Julep taste like?
A Mint Julep tastes cool, minty and bourbon-forward, with gentle sweetness softening the whiskey. Fresh mint contributes aroma more than intense flavor, while melting crushed ice gradually makes the drink lighter and more refreshing.
Tips for making a Mint Julep
Muddle the mint gently with the syrup to release aroma without shredding the leaves. Pack the glass generously with crushed ice and stir until the outside becomes very cold and frosty. Finish with a fresh mint sprig and position it near the rim so its aroma is noticeable while drinking.
