Each year, people around the country gather for a glass of mint julep! This refreshing southern classic is a traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby.

A classic mint julep is made with a mint leaf, bourbon, sugar and water. In the Southern states, where mint julep is more associated with the cuisine, spearmint is the mint of choice. Preparation of the drink may vary from one bartender to another.

• It is believed that the mint julep originated in the southern United States sometime during the 18th century.

• The term “julep” is generally defined as a sweet drink, particularly one used as a vehicle for medicine.

• During the 19th century, Americans also enjoyed a gin-based julep.

• Each year almost 120,000 mint juleps are served at Churchill Downs over the two-day period of the Kentucky Oaks and the Kentucky Derby.

• May 2008 – Churchill Downs unveiled the world’s largest mint julep glass (6-foot tall).

HOW TO OBSERVE

Enjoy a mint julep on this nice spring day! Use #MintJulepDay to post on social media.

HISTORY

Within our research, we were unable to find the creator of National Mint Julep Day.

Mint Julep

Mix up a refreshing mint julep with bourbon, fresh mint and seltzer.

Total:    5 min
Active: 5 min
Yield:   1 cocktail
Level:   Easy

Ingredients

• 10 mint leaves, plus a sprig for garnish
• 1 1/2 teaspoons superfine sugar
• Seltzer water
• Crushed ice
• 2 1/2 ounces Kentucky bourbon whiskey

Directions

1. Place the mint leaves in the bottom of an old-fashioned glass and top with the sugar.
2. Muddle these together until the leaves begin to break down.
3. Add a splash of seltzer water, fill the glass 3/4 full with crushed ice, and add the bourbon.
4. Top with another splash of seltzer, stir, and garnish with a sprig of mint.
5. Serve immediately.