Kentucky Derby 2016: What is a Mint Julep?

What is a Mint Julep and why is it the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby? 

Many people choose to drink a mint julep while attending or watching the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. But why is the julep the drink of choice for the Kentucky Derby? What’s in it? When was it first seen in the United States?

It consists of a spirit (usually bourbon), sugar, water, and a mint leaf (usually spearmint, especially at the Kentucky Derby). The julep is a very sweet drink that is refreshing on a hot day. Traditionally, it is served in a highball glass. The sugar, mint leaf, and water are mixed together. After that, crushed ice is added into the glass. Bourbon is then added to the glass. After that, the drink is to be stirred until the highball glass is well frosted.

The mint julep officially became the drink of the Kentucky Derby back in 1938. Over 120,000 juleps are drank at Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby. For an “official” julep, one must use Old Forester bourbon. It has been a part of the official julep since 2015. For many years, the official julep contained Early Times whiskey even though that was a whiskey and not a bourbon.

Be sure to have a julep as you watch the Kentucky Derby. And keep it in mind next time it’s hot outside.

For more Kentucky Derby coverage, check out our Horse Racing hub page.