The Mint Julep is a classic cocktail for a reason. It is light, refreshing, and crisp – perfect for any spring or summer day. The Mint Julep is also a Kentucky Derby classic. So, put on your hats because we are in for a wild ride!
The Kentucky Derby and the Mint Julep go together like Beyoncé and Jay-Z – it is hard to imagine one without the other. But how did this sporting event and cocktail become so closely intertwined with each other?
Well, according to CNN, farmers in Virginia were the first to begin drinking this classic as early as the 1800s. The drink made its debut at the horseraces shortly after, in the 1820s, as sterling silver julep cups were gifted to the jockeys who stole the show. Chris Goodlett of the Kentucky Derby Museum notes that “the first bit of famous Derby julep lore occurred in 1877 when the event welcomed a celebrity visitor: the famous Polish actress Helena Modjeska. As legend has it, Clark toasted to Helena as she was passed a very large mint julep meant for sharing with a group. Helena liked it so much she kept it for herself and ordered another.”
This was the tip of the iceberg that made mint juleps a staple at the races and eventually led to the Mint Julep being named the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1939.
Raise a glass to history and horses with this recipe!
1
servings5
minutesA classic cocktail recipe: The Mint Julep – It’s a classic for a reason.
10-12 mint leaves
¼ oz. Turbinado Syrup
2 oz. bourbon
Mint sprig and powdered sugar, for garnish
Raw, unrefined sugar
Water
There is something deeply satisfying about stepping outside, scissors in hand, and gathering a handful… Read More
Whole human health is emerging as one of the most important conversations in workplace wellness… Read More
There is something incredibly satisfying about stepping outside and harvesting fresh basil for pasta, rosemary… Read More
As I was walking this weekend, listening once again to The Secret Garden, a simple… Read More
Have you ever wondered if used tea bags in the garden can actually benefit your… Read More
"Many things grow in the garden that were never sown there."— Thomas Fuller As Father's… Read More