At the derby, the worlds of sports, fashion, and food culminate in one of the South’s lavish parties. Maybe it’s because Kentucky is the home of bourbon; maybe it’s the excitement from placing a bet, or perhaps it’s the parade of beautiful horses and glamorous revelers, but something about the greatest two minutes in sports demands celebration. In tribute to the Race of the Roses, we’ve developed this Mint Julep recipe that honors the South and won’t soil your Sunday best. Here is how to prepare it.
Mint Julep
The Julep – a symbol of the derby and friend (or foe) to those who have gambled too much – masks its potency with sugar and mint. Over a two-day period, Churchill Downs goes through 1,000 pounds of mint; our version calls for a lot less, but be sure not to skimp on ice, or the drink won’t be as smooth as it should.
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients
7 leaves mint, stems removed
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons superfine sugar
1 1/2 cups crushed ice
3 1/2 oz 1792 Ridgemont Reserve, Woodford Reserve, or other high-quality bourbons
Directions
Using a mortar and pestle, grind mint and sugar together. Add mint mixture to a chilled cocktail shaker with honey, ice, and bourbon. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds and pour into a chilled silver mint julep glass or tumbler.
