Mint Julep

A mint julep is Southern hospitality in a glass—and the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby. It’s usually enjoyed trackside, but it’s just as perfect for any warm-weather get-together, especially if you’ve got mint taking over your garden like I do. To make one, just muddle a few mint leaves with a splash of simple syrup in a metal julep cup or rocks glass, add a couple ounces of bourbon, and pack the glass tightly with crushed ice. Top it off with a fresh mint sprig and, if you like, a few drops of bitters for a little extra depth.

Mint juleps are cool, refreshing, and made for porch-sipping and easy summer entertaining. When it comes to food, keep it simple and Southern—pimento cheese, deviled eggs, or pulled pork sliders are all perfect alongside a mint julep.

What You’ll Need To Make A Mint Julep

• Fresh Mint: Brings that signature fresh, cooling flavor.
• Simple Syrup: Sweetens the drink just enough to balance the bourbon. Made from equal parts water and sugar, simple syrup blends smoothly into cocktails without any gritty sugar grains and gives even, consistent sweetness. It’s easy to make and keeps in the fridge for up to a month — but if you don’t feel like making it, you can use ¾ teaspoon of granulated sugar instead; just be sure to give the drink a good stir so it dissolves.
• Bourbon: The heart of a good mint julep. Bourbon is an American whiskey made mostly from corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, giving it a smooth, caramel-vanilla flavor. Although it can be made anywhere in the U.S., nearly all bourbon comes from Kentucky—fitting for a drink that’s been tied to the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century. For a smooth, full-flavored julep, look for Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, Four Roses, or Buffalo Trace.
• Angostura Bitters (Optional): Just a few drops add a little extra depth and spice (the cocktail will still be delicious without it).
• Jump to the printable recipe for precise measurements

Step 2: Add bourbon and ice. Pour in the bourbon, then fill the glass to the top with crushed ice. Filling the glass all the way up helps insulate the drink and slows down melting, which keeps the flavor balanced longer. Crushed ice chills the drink quickly without too much dilution—but if you only have ice cubes, just give them a good whack with a muddler or wrap them in a towel and crush them with a rolling pin or meat mallet.

Step 3: Garnish and sip. Top with a mint sprig and a few drops of bitters, if using. Sip near the mint to get its aroma, or position your straw close to the garnish for the full effect.