The Perfect Mint Julep Recipe

Every bourbon is a whiskey but not every whiskey is a bourbon.

In May, I dust off the bourbon decanter and prep my bar for the inaugural bourbon beverage of the Kentucky Derby. Nothing beats the unmistakable flavor of an ice-cold mint julep on a warm Spring day watching the ponies run.

Dress || Silver Tray (vintage) similar here and here || Horse Bit Tea Towel (old) similar || Georgia Cups (c/o) || Hat (under $40) || Paper Straws

The Mint Julep is one of those classic cocktails you should definitely learn to whip up for guests as well as the proper practices that go into making it.

While the Mint Julep is one of the easier 4 ingredient cocktails, the variances of flavor depend on the quality of your ingredients that you put into it, and for this year’s Kentucky Derby party, we decided to use only the best.

The Perfect Mint Julep Recipe

2 ounces Kentucky Bourbon (I used Four Roses Yellow Label)

1 ounce simple syrup (two parts sugar and one part water dissolved over heat)

Crushed ice

3 sprigs of Kentucky Colonel mint (difficult to find in stores, but peppermint is always a good alternative) and more for garnish

In a Mint Julep cup (I used these fun cups from Swoozies), combine your sprigs of mint with the simple syrup and muddle gently so mint oil is released, then add your bourbon.

Fill Julep cup with ice and stir slowly with a bar spoon to combine flavors. Top with sprigs of mint and a striped straw. Serve immediately.

Practice makes perfect as I always say, so invite your friends over and test out your cocktail skills with them, I don’t think I know anyone who would say no to a day filled with bourbon.

Cheers y’all!