The Mint Julep is a fresh and minty bourbon cocktail, perfect for celebrating the Kentucky Derby! This recipe uses a delicious and not too sweet homemade mint simple syrup, fresh mint sprigs, your favorite bourbon, and a whole lot of crushed ice.
What does a mint julep taste like? The mint julep is a bourbon-forward drink, which is a polite way of saying if you do not like bourbon, you are likely not going to like a classic mint julep. The bourbon is sweetened with sugar or simple syrup, and flavored with fresh mint leaves.
Key ingredients for this cocktail:
- Bourbon: this is a bourbon-based cocktail, and the bourbon flavor comes through, so using a top-shelf, and high-quality bourbon is key to a delicious tasting drink.
- Fresh Mint: this recipe calls for A LOT of mint. Some mint leaves are chopped up and added to the simple syrup, and then several springs of the whole mint are added to the glass for more flavor and as a garnish.
- Fresh Mint Simple Syrup: mint simple syrup is super easy to make. Simply mix the water, sugar, and chopped mint in a small saucepan and heat until all the sugar has dissolved. This syrup is a little watered down because I dont like my drinks too sweet, and a Mint Julep is meant to be refreshing, and this recipe is really refreshing and delicious.
- Crushed Ice: You can technically use any type of ice you want, but you use crushed ice if you want a traditional Kentucky Derby-style cocktail.
How to make this recipe:
This is so easy to make!
Start by making the simple syrup:
- Mix the water with the sugar and fresh mint in a small pot. Simmer until the sugar has dissolved and the mint has wilted. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then add to the cocktail. Store the remaining syrup in a tight air jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Then mix the cocktail:
- Mix 2 ounces of bourbon and 1 ounce of the mint simple syrup into a glass. Stir, add a mint sprig, and fill with crushed ice.
What does mint julep taste like?
FAQ
Why are mint Juleps so expensive?
What is the difference between a mint julep and a mojito?
How do you drink mint julep?
What does Old Forester Mint Julep taste like?
What does a mint julep taste like?
The Mint Julep’s signature serving vessel is a miniature mimic of the silver cups won by jockeys at the Kentucky Derby. With a balance of sweet, smoky, and herbal flavors, the Mint Julep will indeed make you feel like you’re winning at life.
What is a mint julep cocktail?
The mint julep is a cocktail with Southern roots featuring bourbon, mint, and simple syrup. Despite their differences, both are refreshing thirst-quenchers on a hot day. This classic mint julep cocktail is refreshing and sophisticated! The combo of mint, bourbon, and simple syrup can’t be topped!
What does a julep taste like?
There’s a bit of sugar to sweeten the drink, but the flavor of a julep mostly dry and very bourbon forward (though traditionally juleps were sweet drinks). It’s more like a very cold whiskey with a mint essence.
How do you make a mint julep?
Here’s what you need to make a mint julep. Mint simple syrup – Water, white sugar, and mint leaves make the homemade mint simple syrup extra refreshing. But you can use store-bought in a pinch. Crushed ice – It’s not a julep if it’s not served on crushed ice. Leave those jumbo cubes for other bourbon cocktails like the old-fashioned.