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Epicurious

Derby Mint Julep

By Tommy Werner

2.9

(3)

Image may contain Vase Plant Pottery Potted Plant Jar Mint Planter Herbs Drink Beverage Cocktail and Alcohol
Photo by Chelsea Kyle, food styling by Tommy Werner

This Derby-ready julep doubles down on the mint flavor with a bright Mint Simple Syrup and fresh mint leaves. The julep cup is essential to the presentation. This recipe yields about 1 1/4 cups mint simple syrup, enough for 30 cocktails. You can also use it to make a refreshing non-alcoholic drink—add a few tablespoons to club soda and serve over ice.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    45 minutes (including chilling time)

  • Yield

    1 cocktail

Ingredients

For the Mint Simple Syrup:

15 mint sprigs (1 bunch)
1 cup raw sugar

For the cocktail:

3 large fresh mint leaves, plus 3 mint sprigs for garnish
2 cups crushed ice, divided
1 1/2 ounces 100-proof bourbon (such as Four Roses), divided

Special equipment:

12-ounce julep cup

Preparation

  1. Make the Mint Simple Syrup:

    Step 1

    Combine mint, sugar, and 1 cup water in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Let cool to room temperature. Using a fine-mesh sieve or a colander lined with cheesecloth, strain mixture into a heatproof container and chill at least 25 minutes.

  2. Make the cocktail:

    Step 2

    Using your hands, lightly slap mint leaves, being careful not to bruise them, and place in a julep cup. Add 1/3 cup ice, then 2 tsp. Mint Simple Syrup. Pack another 1/3 cup ice on top. Add 1 oz. bourbon and stir. Add another 1/3 cup ice and remaining 1/2 oz. bourbon. Top with remaining 1 cup ice, tightly packing into a dome. Insert a straw into ice and garnish with mint sprigs.

  3. Do Ahead

    Step 3

    The Mint Simple Syrup can be made up to 5 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

TagsCold DrinkBeveragesBourbonWhiskeyAlcoholSouthernAmericanMintHerbs & SpicesQuickEasySimmerSpringEpicurious

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