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Cocktail History
The Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that was created in the late 1700s in the United States. It was first used as a medicinal remedy to settle the stomach before it gained popularity as a craft cocktail among the Southern elite and eventually became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938. The recipe is traditionally made with bourbon, simple syrup, and mint, and it is served in a pewter julep tin.
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, grains, malted barley, and water. I used J. Carver Distillery Straight Bourbon Whiskey.
Simple Syrup: This is a sweetener made with white sugar and water. I made mine using this stovetop recipe.
Mint Leaves: This is an herb. I used Mojito mint leaves.
Mint Sprig: This is an herb. I used Mojito mint.
Bartending Tools
To make this cocktail, you’ll need the following bar tools:
Jigger: This is used to measure and pour ingredients. I used the Japanese jigger from the A Bar Above 14-Piece Silver Bar Set.
Muddler: This is used to muddle ingredients. I used the HQY Stainless Steel Cocktail Muddler.
Bar Spoon: This is used to stir ingredients. I used the Barfly Stainless Steel Teardrop Bar Spoon.
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Tasting Notes
This cocktail has the following flavor profile:
• Appearance: Light brown crystalline color
• Aroma: Mint and slight spices
• Taste: Smoky and spicy bourbon flavor balanced by noticeable sugar syrup and bright mint
• Finish: Crisp and clean mint rounded out by whiskey burn
Kendall’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Kendall’s Take: “I wasn’t used to the taste of bourbon when I tried this icon for the first time years ago, so I found the Mint Julep to be quite strong. These days as I’m revisiting it and several flavored variations, I really enjoyed its minty and spicy quality. I’d still call it a little strong for my taste and do prefer a nice fruity syrup or interesting liqueur added in over the original, but it’s a classic for a reason. Plus, I enjoy any chance to pull out my julep tin.”
Recipe
This cocktail recipe was adapted from The Art of Vintage Cocktails by Stephanie Rosenbaum.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning we make a small commission each time you purchase a product using our links. Product images sourced from Amazon Product Advertising API. Amazon affiliate links last updated on 2025-03-24.
Mint Julep
The Mint Julep is a classic cocktail that was created in the late 1700s in the United States. It was first used as a medicinal remedy to settle the stomach before it gained popularity as a craft cocktail among the Southern elite and eventually became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938. The recipe is traditionally made with bourbon, simple syrup, and mint, and it is served in a pewter julep tin.
Ingredients
Method
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Add mint leaves and simple syrup to a julep tin.
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Muddle gently for 5-7 seconds.
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Fill mug with crushed ice.
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Add bourbon.
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Stir for 3-5 seconds.
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Pack mug with more crushed ice.
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Garnish with mint sprig.
