How to Make a Perfect Mint Julep (And Which Bourbon to Use)

Every year the Mint Julep gets associated with the Kentucky Derby, served in a metal cup with a mountain of crushed ice and a sprig of mint. But the Mint Julep is more than a racing tradition — it's one of the oldest American cocktails, and when made with the right bourbon and fresh mint, it's one of the most refreshing drinks you'll ever have.

The recipe

2.5 oz bourbon, 0.5 oz simple syrup, 8-10 fresh mint leaves plus a sprig for garnish, crushed ice. Place the mint leaves in the bottom of a julep cup or rocks glass. Add the simple syrup and gently press the mint with a muddler — you want to bruise it, not shred it. Fill the cup with crushed ice. Pour the bourbon over the ice and stir gently. Top with more crushed ice, mound it up, and garnish with a generous mint sprig right next to where you'll sip.

The most common mistake

Over-muddling the mint. If you shred it, the drink tastes bitter and grassy. Press firmly just a few times to release the oils, then stop. The mint sprig on top is also doing real work — the aroma hits you as you sip, which is most of what you're tasting.

Best bourbons for a Mint Julep

You want something with enough proof to stand up to all that ice dilution — 90 proof minimum, 100 proof is better. Woodford Reserve is the official Derby bourbon and works beautifully. Old Forester 100 Proof is a fantastic value pick. If you want to go premium, a single barrel pick or Blanton's takes this drink to another level entirely.

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