Steve Berry is a native New Englander who's lived in South Florida long enough to qualify as a Miami local. He's one of the founders of the dining group Cobaya Miami.
When it comes to drinks for Derby Day, there's the Mint Julep and then there's everything else. The Mint Julep has been a Kentucky Derby Day tradition since 1938 with over 120,000 juleps being poured over the weekend! Spring is here and it's hot in South Florida. This drink is sure to keep you cool and refreshed while you watch and root for your horse to come in.
Ingredients
- 8-10 spearmint leaves
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 3 oz bourbon
- Crushed ice
- Additional mint sprig for garnish/aromatics
- 1 stainless steel julep cup or glass of your choice
Instructions
I've always found that Woodford Reserve makes for a great Mint Julep. Woodford is a 90.4 proof (45.2% alcohol) bourbon with nice notes of wood and very floral on the finish. I like the way the floral notes blend with the mint. It's also not very sweet, which is key because we'll be adding simple syrup. Alternatively, Four Roses Single Barrel also makes for a luxurious Mint Julep.
To begin, take your mint leaves and gently muddle them in your julep cup. Next, add your simple syrup and stir to marry the mint and sugar water together. Add crushed ice above the rim of the cup so it resembles a snow cone.
Now add the star of the show – the bourbon! Stir until the outside of the julep cup begins to frost. You're about ready to go bottoms up. But wait! Add a little sprig of mint to the drink. When you sip the drink, the aroma of the mint will tickle your nose and make your julep taste even more refreshing.
