Mint Julep

The mint julep is a cocktail made primarily out of bourbon and mint syrup. Similar to the Cuban mojito, the mint julep is an iconic American mixed drink. It is commonly associated with the southern region of the United States, and the Kentucky Derby. The mint julep became the Kentucky Derby drink of choice in 1938. According to Cocktail Times, over 80,000 mint juleps are served each year in novelty cups during the two day derby. http://www.cocktailtimes.com/history/history_mintjulep.shtml

The mint julep is an adaptation of an Arabic drink know as the julab. The julab contained rose petals and water. As the drink made its way to Europe the rose petals were replaced by mint which was easier to attain. Mint juleps did not appear in print until 1803 when it was mentioned as a common drink in Virginia. Early mint juleps may have contained liquors other than the bourbon whiskey contained in today's mint julep http://www.cocktailtimes.com/history/history_mintjulep.shtml<ref>

Mint juleps should be served in metal cups as this allows for frost build-up and keeps the cocktail cold. Mint juleps should be made with bourbon whiskey that is at least 90 proof and fresh mint leaves. For variation, different brands of bourbon whiskey may be used. http://www.io.com/gibbonsb/juleps.html<ref>

• San Francisco Chronicle: "Trot out a Kentucky drinking tradition for Derby Day" (2007)

• ESPN.com: Derby Serving One Pricey Drink

• The Cincinnati Enquirer: "Myth Of The Mint Julep" (2003)

• A Taste of Kentucky: About the Mint Julep

• Call to The Derby Post: Call to the Derby Post: Mint Juleps

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