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Mint Julep

image of a classic Mint Julep cocktail. The drink is served in a traditional silver or pewter cup, filled with crushed ice, garnished with a fresh sprig of mint. The background shows a warm, inviting bar setting with soft lighting, highlighting the frosty appearance of the cup and the vibrant green of the mint. The atmosphere is cozy and elegant, perfect for a relaxing evening.

A symbol of Southern hospitality and Derby Day tradition, the Mint Julep is a refreshing bourbon cocktail that’s as simple as it is elegant. Fresh mint leaves are gently muddled with simple syrup to release their fragrant oils, creating a crisp and aromatic base. Smooth bourbon is then poured over crushed ice, chilling the drink to perfection and giving it a rich yet cooling finish. Topped with a fresh mint sprig, this classic cocktail is perfect for warm afternoons, summer gatherings, or anytime you crave a taste of Southern charm in a glass.

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Tasting Notes

The Mint Julep is a refreshing, bourbon-forward cocktail with a smooth, sweet, and herbal profile. The fragrant fresh mint complements the rich caramel and vanilla notes of the bourbon, while the simple syrup balances the bold flavors. Served over a mound of crushed ice, this cocktail is cooling, smooth, and slightly sweet, making it a classic Southern favorite.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a julep cup (or a double old-fashioned glass), a muddler to release the mint’s oils, a bar spoon for stirring, and a Lewis bag or blender to crush the ice properly. A jigger ensures precise measurements.

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 ounces bourbon
  • .5 ounce simple syrup
  • 8-10 leaves fresh mint
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Instructions

  • Prepare the Glass:
  • In a julep cup or double old-fashioned glass, muddle the mint leaves and simple syrup until the mint is fragrant and slightly bruised.
  • Fill the glass with crushed ice.
  • Mix the Drink:
  • Pour in the bourbon and stir until the glass is frosty.
  • Serve:
  • Top with more crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
  • Enjoy:
  • Serve immediately and enjoy your Mint Julep!

Pro Tips

  • Use crushed ice—it helps dilute the strong bourbon over time, creating the perfect balance.
  • Choose fresh mint and muddle gently to avoid bitterness.
  • For extra depth, add a few dashes of Angostura bitters before stirring.
  • For a stronger mint aroma, rub the mint sprig garnish along the rim of the glass before serving.
  • Try using a flavored simple syrup (honey, demerara, or mint-infused) for a unique twist.

When to Serve

The Mint Julep is synonymous with the Kentucky Derby, making it a must-have for Derby Day celebrations. It’s also perfect for warm weather, Southern-style parties, bourbon tastings, and elegant outdoor gatherings.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

For the best experience, use a smooth, slightly sweet bourbon like Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Maker’s Mark. Fresh, high-quality mint makes all the difference in flavor and aroma.

Similar Cocktails

If you enjoy Mint Julep, here are five similar cocktails to try:


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image of a classic Mint Julep cocktail. The drink is served in a traditional silver or pewter cup, filled with crushed ice, garnished with a fresh sprig of mint. The background shows a warm, inviting bar setting with soft lighting, highlighting the frosty appearance of the cup and the vibrant green of the mint. The atmosphere is cozy and elegant, perfect for a relaxing evening.

Mint Julep

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
5 from 1 vote
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: bourbon cocktail, kentucky derby cocktail, Mint Julep
Servings: 1
Author: Paul Kushner
Muddle mint with simple syrup, fill with crushed ice, add bourbon.

Instructions

  • Prepare the Glass:
  • In a julep cup or double old-fashioned glass, muddle the mint leaves and simple syrup until the mint is fragrant and slightly bruised.
  • Fill the glass with crushed ice.
  • Mix the Drink:
  • Pour in the bourbon and stir until the glass is frosty.
  • Serve:
  • Top with more crushed ice and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
  • Enjoy:
  • Serve immediately and enjoy your Mint Julep!

Notes

If you don't have a julep cup, you can use a highball glass or an old-fashioned glass instead. To make simple syrup, combine equal parts granulated sugar and water in a saucepan and heat until the sugar has dissolved. Let the syrup cool before using.
Tried this recipe?Leave a comment and let us know how it was!
Mint Julep
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.
5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

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Paul Kushner

Written by Paul Kushner

Founder and CEO of MyBartender. Graduated from Penn State University. He always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. His restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. By the time he turned 17 he was serving tables, and by 19 he was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week.

In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, Paul opened his first restaurant/bar. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

Follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Youtube, Google Guide and MuckRack.

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