Lumberjack Julep

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Cocktail History

The Lumberjack Julep is an autumn cocktail that was created by Josh Durr in Louisville, Kentucky.

Like its iconic predecessor, the recipe blends whiskey, mint, and syrup, but it swaps the traditional simple syrup for a spiced maple version that brings cozy, fall-inspired warmth to every sip. This seasonal variation captures the essence of autumn while maintaining the refreshing qualities of the original Mint Julep, making it great for cooler weather gatherings or a laid-back evening drink.

Cocktail Ingredients

To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Bourbon: This is a type of whiskey made in the United States with at least 51% corn, with other grains, water, and yeast, which are distilled and then aged in new charred oak barrels to develop a rich, caramelized flavor.

Rye: This is a type of whiskey made with at least 51% fermented rye grain, malted barley, corn, and yeast, which are distilled and then aged in new charred oak barrels to develop a spicy, robust flavor.

Spiced Maple Syrup: This is a sweetener made with maple syrup, ginger root, spices, and vanilla, which are heated and infused to develop a warm, autumnal flavor.

Mint: This is an herb made from the leaves of the mint plant, which are harvested and used for their cool, aromatic flavor.

Brands I Used

• 🔗 Boondocks 8 Year Old Straight Bourbon
• 🔗 Heaven Hill Distillery Rittenhouse Rye

Bartending Tools

To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following bar tools:

Bar Mat: This is a rubber or silicone mat that’s placed on the bar surface and used for catching spills, providing grip for glasses and tools, and keeping the workspace clean and organized.

Jigger: This is a small double-sided tool with different volume measurements on each side that’s used for accurately portioning ingredients.

Muddler: This is a handheld bar tool with a thick handle and flat or textured end that’s used for crushing ingredients to release their flavors.

Bar Spoon: This is a long-handled spoon with a twisted shaft that’s used for stirring cocktails, layering ingredients, and reaching the bottom of tall glasses and mixing vessels.

Julep Tin: This is a small metal or glass cup with a rounded shape that’s designed to keep cocktails icy cold and develop a frosty exterior.

Tools I Used

• 🔗 A Bar Above 18×12 Premium Bar Mat
• 🔗 A Bar Above Stainless Steel Japanese Jigger
• 🔗 OXO Steel Cocktail Muddler
• 🔗 Barfly Stainless Steel Teardrop Bar Spoon
• 🔗 Godinger Hamilton House Tumbler

Tasting Notes

This cocktail has the following flavor profile:

• Appearance: Ombré mint green that melts into a golden brown color

• Aroma: Classic mint and baking spices

• Taste: Rich flavors of strong, spicy American whiskey married with sweet, dark maple and mint

• Finish: More zesty and bright mint

Kendall’s Take
“Mint Juleps don’t hold back on their booziness, and this fall-inspired version definitely embraces that bold whiskey backbone. The spiced maple syrup adds warmth and depth to the classic’s structure, giving it an autumnal edge that feels especially fitting when the air turns crisp. The Lumberjack Julep is bracing yet very flavorful, and it’s a fantastic seasonal twist on a time-honored template.”

Recipe

This cocktail recipe was found in Food & Wine magazine.