The first Saturday in May means the Kentucky Derby and that means Mint Juleps are on the drink menu here at Spirited Texas. Let’s start with a classic Bourbon Mint Julep.
Over the years, I’ve tried all kinds of mint julep recipes. With only three ingredients in the classic version (sugar, mint and bourbon), you wouldn’t think there would be much to tinker with but I’ve tried making the drink with powdered sugar, simple syrup or mint simple syrup.
Here’s my favorite. ~~ Lynda
Classic Mint Julep
- 8-10 mint leaves plus a sprig for garnish
- Splash of water or seltzer water
- 1-1/2 tsp superfine sugar
- 2-1/2 oz. Kentucky Bourbon whiskey (Ezra Brooks is my go-to)
Place mint leaves, sugar and a splash of water or seltzer in the bottom of a julep or highball glass. Muddle the mint and sugar (add a splash, just a splash of water when you muddle). Fill your cup or glass with crushed ice then add the bourbon and stir.
Note: Crushed ice is a must. I have some stainless steel straw/spoons that I use to stir and sip. I’ve also found that regular granulated sugar works just fine.
A Twist on a Classic
So as promised, I have gone back to Gin. I found a recipe on Liquor.com for a Gin on Gin Julep. Being the week of the Kentucky Derby, I thought I’d go with it and see what happens. This gin julep calls for Genever which is an old style gin that is made with malt-wine and some sugar and can can be used as substitute for whiskey, the main ingredient in a traditional mint julep. I tried one with Bols Geenver and Fords London Dry Gin. It is a very sweet tasting drink. I could definitely taste the muddled mint, but I have to say it’s not my favorite. I think it was just too sweet.
I think if I was at the Kentucky Derby, I would try a traditional Whiskey Mint Julep. But if sweet and minty is your thing, give this Gin on Gin Julep a try. ~~Kay
Gin on Gin Julep
- 1/2 ounce Rich simple syrup (2 parts sugar to 1 part water)
- 8 to 15 large mint leaves
- 1 ounce Bols Genever
- 1 ounce Fords London Dry Gin
- Club Soda to fill
Glass: High Ball
Garnish: Mint Sprig
In a mixing glass, muddle mint sprigs with Rich simple syrup until mint starts to break down.
Pour into high ball glass, add gin and stir. Add crushed ice, top with club soda and stir.
Garnish with Mint Sprig and enjoy.
Thanks for reading. Enjoy the Kentucky Derby! Hope your horse wins. ~~Lynda and Kay
