Celebrate Anytime with a Classic Mint Julep 🥃🌿

As we settle into the early days of summer, there’s no better time to enjoy a refreshing, timeless cocktail that brings a taste of Southern charm to any occasion. We recently celebrated National Mint Julep Day on May 30th, and it inspired us to share our take on the classic Mint Julep. This iconic drink, with its cool minty freshness and smooth bourbon backbone, is perfect for sipping on a warm day, whether you’re watching the races or just kicking back on the porch. Let’s dive into why this cocktail is a must-try and how to make it at home!

Why You’ll Love a Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is a cocktail that has stood the test of time, and for good reason. It’s the ultimate refresher: the combination of fresh mint, a touch of sweetness, and bourbon over crushed ice creates a drink that’s both invigorating and sophisticated. Traditionally associated with the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep has a rich history, but you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy it. We love how simple it is to make, yet it feels so elegant in a chilled glass with that signature mint garnish.

We used Blanton’s Bourbon for ours, which adds a luxurious depth to the drink, but you can use your favorite bourbon to make it your own. Ready to give it a try? Here’s our recipe!

The Recipe: Classic Mint Julep

This is our go-to recipe for a Mint Julep that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 8–10 fresh mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (or 1 tsp sugar dissolved in a little water)
• 2 1/2 oz bourbon (Blanton’s Bourbon recommended)
• Crushed ice
• Optional: a splash of soda water for a lighter touch

Instructions

1. Muddle the Mint: In a julep cup or rocks glass, add the fresh mint leaves and simple syrup. Gently muddle the mint to release its oils—don’t overdo it, or the mint can become bitter.
2. Add the Bourbon: Pour in the bourbon and give it a quick stir to combine the flavors.
3. Pack with Ice: Fill the glass to the brim with crushed ice. The ice is key to keeping this drink frosty and refreshing.
4. Stir and Garnish: Stir gently until the glass starts to frost on the outside. Top with a little more crushed ice if needed, then garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. For an extra touch, you can add a splash of soda water to lighten it up.
5. Sip and Enjoy: Serve with a straw and sip slowly to savor the cool, minty goodness. There’s nothing better on a warm summer day!

Pro Tip

To make your Mint Julep extra refreshing, chill your glass in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before preparing the drink. It’ll keep the ice from melting too quickly and make the whole experience even more delightful.

Why Blanton’s Bourbon?

We chose Blanton’s Bourbon for this recipe because of its smooth, well-rounded flavor profile. Blanton’s has notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of citrus, which pair beautifully with the mint and sweetness in the julep. It’s a premium bourbon that elevates the drink, making it feel extra special. That said, any quality bourbon will work—something like Woodford Reserve or Maker’s Mark would also be fantastic. Just avoid anything too smoky, as it might overpower the delicate mint flavors.

A Nod to National Mint Julep Day

National Mint Julep Day on May 30th gave us the perfect excuse to break out this recipe, but honestly, this cocktail is a winner any day of the year. Whether you’re toasting to the Kentucky Derby, hosting a summer gathering, or just craving something cool and refreshing, the Mint Julep has you covered. Fun fact: the Mint Julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century, with over 120,000 juleps served at Churchill Downs each year during the event!

Perfect Pairings

The Mint Julep’s crisp, herbaceous profile makes it a great match for classic Southern dishes. Pair it with fried chicken and biscuits, a shrimp and grits platter, or even a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. If you’re hosting a party, a tray of pimento cheese sandwiches or deviled eggs would be a hit alongside this drink. The minty freshness cuts through richer flavors, making it a versatile companion for all kinds of summer fare.

Final Thoughts

The Mint Julep is more than just a cocktail—it’s a tradition, a feeling, and a little slice of summer in every sip. Its frosty presentation and bright flavors make it a showstopper, whether you’re serving it at a Derby watch party or a casual backyard hangout. We’ve already made it a staple in our cocktail rotation, and we’re pretty sure it’ll become one of yours too.

Have you tried a Mint Julep before? Or do you have your own spin on this classic? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear your thoughts! And if you make this recipe, be sure to tag us on social media so we can see your creations. Cheers to summer sipping!