The Kentucky Derby is always a great occasion to mix up this classic combination of bourbon, simple syrup, and muddled mint leaves over heaps of crushed ice. While it’s the signature cocktail of “the most exciting two minutes in sports,” the Mint Julep shouldn’t just be reserved for a single day. It’s refreshing, ice-cold, and a perfect sipper for bridging the spring and summer seasons. Try using a higher-proof bourbon to cut through the sweetness and dilution from the crushed ice.
Here's the recipe:
Ingredients
8 mint leaves
1/4 ounce simple syrup
2 ounces bourbon
Garnish: mint sprig
Garnish: Angostura bitters (optional)
Steps
In a Julep cup or rocks glass, lightly muddle the mint leaves in the simple syrup.
Add the bourbon then pack the glass tightly with crushed ice.
Stir until the cup is frosted on the outside.
Top with more crushed ice to form an ice dome, and garnish with a mint sprig and a few drops of bitters (optional).
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