The Kentucky Derby, one of the most beloved horse racing events in the US, will be held on Sunday May 2nd. Not only is it an exciting, much anticipated sporting event, it’s also a piece of American history. One rooted in many, timeless traditions.
When one thinks about the Kentucky Derby, three images usually emerge: the galloping horses, the flamboyant hats and the Mint Julep. The latter of which – the bourbon-driven mint julep – has been consumed in Kentucky since the early 19th century. A southern accent isn’t necessary to imbibe one of these, but it’s definitely encouraged.
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“Mint Juleps are synonymous with Derby culture here in Kentucky,” says Chea Beckley, Beverage Director at Proof on Maine in Louisville. There, they make a traditional julep using mint, simple syrup, bourbon, and crushed ice.
“It’s simple, so using the right technique and ingredients is important.” The selection of the right bourbon is a point of pride in Kentucky. It shouldn’t be too sweet or the drink won’t be balanced. “In terms of mint, we use Kentucky Colonel, which has a pure spearmint flavor without the harsh notes you find in other varieties.” You build the drink by muddling the mint first. Lightly press the leaves with the back of a spoon or a muddler, if you over muddle the leaves will make the drink bitter. “Then, add simple syrup, pack the glass with crushed ice and pour bourbon over ice.”
If you are feeling fancy, you will do this in silver or pewter julep cups. The drink was originally made with cognac or peach brandy and was often topped with a splash of rum. Commonly, when preparing a Mint Julep, the historical Julep Cup is a must use. Mint Julep aficionados consider it borderline blasphemy to use anything other than this receptacle.
Make Your Own!
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces of your favorite Bourbon
- One teaspoon of granulated sugar
- Two teaspoons of water
- 4-5 Mint leaves
Preparation:
Using a high ball glass, lightly muddle the mint, sugar and water. You can’t use simple syrup for this recipe because you need the mixture of the mint and sugar granules. Add ice to the glass, pour in the bourbon and stir briskly to mix everything together. Keep in the same glass or pour the mixture into a mason jar or Julep Cup. Add a mint sprig for garnish.
Best Bourbon Options
Located in the heart of horse racing country, Woodford’s bourbon has a complex yet balanced presentation across the five areas of bourbon flavor – Sweet Aromatic, Fruit and Floral, Spice, Wood, and Grain notes. “This makes it the perfect choice for inclusion in classic and contemporary cocktails, in the culinary arts and of course it can be enjoyed by itself, on the rocks or with a splash of water,” says Master Distiller Chris Morris. To honor the Derby, they’ve released a 2015 limited edition bottle featuring artwork by artist Carole Andreen-Harris.
For the last eight generations, the Samuels family has been crafting whisky (they prefer to drop the ‘e’ because of their Scottish roots) in rural Kentucky. The family’s love for the juice began in 1780 when third generation Scottish-Irish immigrant Robert Samuels decided to put down roots in Loretto, Kentucky. You can always spot a Maker’s Mark bottle because of the iconic red wax.
The folks at Bulleit take great pride in the fact that their whiskies are small-batch. This bourbon is loved from start to finish. More than 150 years ago, Augustus Bulleit began making whiskey and the company still utilizes the same techniques that he perfected. The bourbon is a blend of rye, corn, and barley malt. The secret to the smooth flavor is the use of Kentucky limestone filtered water. It’s spicier and less sweet than most bourbons due to the large amount of rye.
