When it comes to the Kentucky Derby (May 4th), there are a few things that spring to mind – over the top hats, commentary that resembles a high-speed cop chase, and of course, the Mint Julep.
The Mint Julep was announced the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1983, and it has been a Southern staple for as long as we can remember.
So, for those of you won’t make it to Churchill Downs this year, allow me to introduce you to some tasty easy-to-make Mint Juleps that would be ideal for any home viewing party.
Check out some recipes from The Official Kentucky Derby Sponsor – Woodford Reserve, Proper No Twelve Irish Whiskey, Slow & Low and Templeton Rye.
Cheers!
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THE PERFECT WOODFORD RESERVE MINT JULEP
2 parts Woodford Reserve
1 part Water
1 tsp. Sugar
Crushed Ice
4 sprigs Fresh Mint
Directions:
Express the essential oils in the mint and rub them inside the glass or copper cup.
To the same glass, add sugar, water, bourbon and crushed ice.
Stir. Garnish with more crushed ice and fresh mint.
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THE PROPER JULEP
2 oz Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey
1 barspoon
.25 oz raw sugar
8-10 Mint Leaves
Crushed Ice
Directions:
Lightly muddle ¾ of the mint leaves and sugar into cup
Add Proper No. Twelve Whiskey and crushed ice
Garnish with mint
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WOODFORD SPIRE
*This cocktail is also served at Churchill Downs for anyone who doesn’t want a Mint Julep
And is also a great alternative as a “batched cocktail” to serve to friends at any Derby Watching Parties*
1.5 parts Woodford Reserve
2 parts Lemonade
1 part cranberry juice
Crushed Ice
Lemon peel for a lemon twist to garnish
Directions:
In a glass mix Woodford Reserve, lemonade and Cranberry juice with a bar spoon.
Add liquid mixture into a copper cup, add crushed ice to the top of the glass & serve with a lemon twist.
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SLOW & LOW MINT JULEP
3 oz of Slow & Low Rye Whiskey
1/2 oz of Simple Syrup – Preferably Demerara
10 sprigs of mint (Reserve 1 sprig for garnish)
Crushed ice
Copper, steel or aluminum cup
Directions:
Muddle whiskey and mint in a mix glass.Add 1 large cube of ice.
Stir, but not so much as to dilute
Add liberal amounts of crushed ice to more than fill the tin cup.
Fine strain contents of mix into a glass overcrushed ice.
Garnish with 6 mint leaves.
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