Kentucky Derby 2015: What is a Mint Julep?

Before the post parade and the starting gate, take a look at that quintessential Kentucky Derby drink, the mint julep.

The mint julep is a cocktail known primarily in the South and is specifically associated with the Kentucky Derby. Its basic form is bourbon combined with fresh mint and often served in a silver “julep” cup. The silver cup frosts over due to the ice and helps keep the drink cold for a long time, provided you hold it by the edge of the top or edge of the bottom.

The primary ingredients of a mint julep are bourbon, sugar, water and fresh mint. Spearmint is the mint of choice, and especially in Kentucky. The proper mixology of the cocktail is largely debated as there are a few different ways to do it. The main thing is that the mint leaves need to be smashed and muddled with the sugar and water in order to release essential oils and create the signature taste. One way to do it is to place the mint, sugar and water in a cocktail shaker and muddle it with the back of the spoon. Then add the ice and bourbon and shake to further crush the mint and release mint flakes throughout the drink.

Alternatively, the mint, sugar and water can be muddled in another type of cocktail glass such as a highball or Collins. Then fill the glass with crushed ice and add the bourbon. Stir until the glass is frosted, then add a mint sprig.

Mint juleps taste very minty as you might expect, but the quality of the bourbon plays a big part in whether this taste is pleasant or not. It’s best to use actual bourbon and not Kentucky or Tennessee whiskey. If the bourbon is harsh or has a lot of bite, that will come out in the taste of the julep. You want a smooth bourbon with plenty of caramel and vanilla notes to compliment the sweetness of the sugar and mint.

The mint julep has been particularly associated with and promoted by the Kentucky Derby since 1938. Well over 100,000 mint juleps are served in the two-day period that represents the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby. Woodford Reserve bourbon is considered the “official” bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, due to a marketing agreement by the distiller. Be aware if you see Early Times as part of the sponsorship, that this is not actually a bourbon as it doesn’t meet all the regulations to qualify as bourbon.

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