Mint Julep is a refreshing cocktail made with bourbon, simple syrup and mint, traditionally served at the Kentucky Derby. Whether you’re at the big race or watching from home, you’re going to love this smooth Southern cocktail.
If I’m being honest, I’ve never attended the Kentucky Derby. Yet I feel like I’ve strolled through the crowd wearing a bright, feathery hat, placed a blanket of roses on the back of the winning horse, and sipped the most famous cocktail that Kentucky has to offer…The Mint Julep.
It has become our annual tradition that my husband and I gather with friends to celebrate one of the most anticipated sporting events in our nation’s history. Longtime friends join us each year for a Derby Party, as we pick our favorite horses, place our bets, cheer on the jockeys, and make the Best Mint Julep Recipe.
Mint Juleps are at the center of our festivities. A delicious blend of Kentucky’s finest bourbon, simple syrup and muddled mint poured over lots of crushed ice. It’s cool and refreshing, minty and sweet. The perfect cocktail enjoyed with bite-size appetizers before the bell rings and the gate flies up.
What to serve with Mint Julep Cocktails
Your guests will enjoy a tray of fresh vegetables and creamy dip or any of the appetizer recipes above while sipping their Mint Julep Cocktails.
History of the Mint Julep at the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby was first run in May of 1875, making it the longest continually-held sporting event in the country. Mint Juleps have been part of the celebration since the very beginning, holding their own place in history.
The Julep was originally born in the south when sugar water and mint were added to a glass, sometimes with medicine, as a concoction for making someone feel better. The drink was sweet and eventually alcohol was incorporated to make a soothing cocktail.
Now it is the classic cocktail at The Kentucky Derby and enjoyed by thousands of derby goers each year. Whether you’re at the track or celebrating from afar, you’ll be off to the races with this refreshing Classic Mint Julep Recipe!
Classic Mint Julep Recipe
Key Ingredients:
- 6 ounces of bourbon
- 2 ounces simple syrup
- 12 mint leaves, plus 2 for garnish
- crushed ice
How to make a Mint Julep
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Begin by making the simple syrup. Add one cup granulated sugar and one cup water to a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer and stir until sugar is dissolved completely, about 6 minutes. Remove from heat, strain and allow to cool.
- Gently muddle 12 mint leaves in a cocktail shaker. Add the bourbon and simple syrup. Shake to combine.
- Divide mixture between two highball glasses filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a mint leaf and a straw, if desired. Recipes makes 2 cocktails.
These Bourbon Mint Juleps make a delicious drink to sip during a lovely meal, at a spring party with family or while watching the Kentucky Derby with friends.
This article and my Mint Julep Recipe was originally published in the Spirits Section of South Brunswick Magazine for the Spring 2025 edition. I write and contribute a cocktail recipe quarterly for SBM. Look for more original drinks and cocktails as I share them here at raveaboutfood.com.
More Cocktail Recipes
Get more recipes sent to your inbox when you enter your email address in the SUBSCRIBE BOX below. I hope you join me today!
Get recipes sent to your inbox!
Mint Julep Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 ounces bourbon
- 2 ounces simple syrup
- 12 mint leaves, plus two for garnish
- crushed ice
Instructions
- Begin by making the simple syrup. Add one cup granulated sugar and one cup water to a small saucepan over medium heat. Simmer and stir until sugar is dissolved completely, about 6 minutes. Remove from heat, strain and allow to cool.
- Gently muddle 12 mint leaves in a cocktail shaker. Add the bourbon and simple syrup. Shake to combine.
- Divide mixture between two highball glasses filled with crushed ice. Garnish with a mint leaf and a straw, if desired. Recipes makes 2 cocktails.
Equipment
- 2 cocktail glasses
- 1 cocktail strainer, if desired
- 1 muddler
Notes
- Use the freshest mint you can find. The leaves should be bright green and fragrant.
- Strain the mixture through a cocktail strainer before adding it to the glasses, if you want to remove the mint leaves.
- Be sure to use plenty of crushed ice to keep the cocktails cold.
