A Celebration in a Cup

Kentucky Derby's Traditonal Mint Julep

The Mint Julep has been the traditional beverage of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby for nearly a century. Each year, more than 125,000 Mint Juleps are enjoyed by fans over the two-day weekend. According to KentuckyDerby.com, that feat requires more than 10,000 bottles of Kentucky bourbon, 2,250 pounds of freshly harvested mint, and 475,000 pounds of ice. Watching the race? Throw on your fantastic hats and mix some up to enjoy at home!

A Couple Of Glass Vases With Plants In Them

Mint Julep

The Mint Julep is the signature drink of the race dubbed as the most exciting two minutes in sports.

Ready your favorite julep cup and gather the following per drink.

You Will Need

Crushed ice
2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon
.75 oz Mint Syrup
Sprigs of Fresh Mint for Garnish
Spoon to stir
Standard Jigger

Preparation

Fill a julep cup with crushed ice
Add mint syrup and bourbon
Stir rapidly to mix
Garnish and serve

A Person Holding A Jar Of Food

Home-made Mint Syrup

This mint simple syrup is made with fresh mint leaves, sugar, and water to create a minty fresh sweet syrup to add a refreshing lift to cocktails, mocktails, pastry glazes, and frozen desserts. Makes approximately 8 servings. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.

You Will Need

1 cup water
1 cup white sugar
1 cup fresh mint leaves

Preparation

Combine water, sugar, and mint leaves in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 1 minute; remove from heat and let syrup steep, about 30 minutes.
Pour syrup into a sterilized glass jar through a mesh strainer to remove mint leaves; let cool.

Learn about Chef Chris Huerta's trip to the 2024 Kentucky Derby.