History & Heritage
“References to the julep appear as early as the 18th century in Virginia, where it was sipped as a morning tonic of spirits, sugar, and mint. By the mid‑19th century the bourbon-based Mint Julep had become a symbol of Southern hospitality and, starting in 1938, the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, where thousands are served each year in frosty silver cups.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Gently muddle mint and syrup in a chilled julep cup
Add bourbon and fill the cup completely with crushed ice
Stir until the exterior frosts, then mound more ice on top
Insert a generous mint bouquet and serve with a short straw
Glassware
Traditionally served in a frosty silver or pewter cup
Garnish
Slap to release oils
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Use pebble or crushed ice for proper dilution and frosty appearance
Only bruise the mint; over-muddling releases bitterness
Hold the cup by the base to preserve the frost on the outside
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Mint Julep.
Brown Sugar Julep
Demerara syrup lends a deeper caramel note.
Changes
Smacked Mint
Mints are gently slapped rather than muddled for a cleaner flavor.
Changes
Georgia Mint Julep
Peach brandy replaces part of the bourbon for a fruity Southern twist.
Changes
Champagne Julep
Topped with sparkling wine for a lighter, celebratory take.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Old Fashioned
The primordial cocktail—whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water—showcasing the base spirit in its purest, most aromatic form.
John Collins
The bourbon take on the 19th‑century gin punch from Limmer's Old House—spirit, lemon, sugar and sparkling water built tall and fizzy.
Whiskey Sour
A timeless blend of whiskey, lemon, and sugar shaken silky with egg white—template for the entire sour family.