The History and Significance of the Mint Julep
The Kentucky Derby is a celebration of tradition, with its iconic elements such as the extravagant hats, elegant attire, and the garland of roses. Among these traditions, one stands out for its unique blend of flavor and cultural significance: the mint julep. This beloved cocktail has become synonymous with the event, offering attendees a refreshing taste of Southern hospitality.
The mint julep is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of the Kentucky Derby and the broader Southern culture. Its origins can be traced back to the third century, with roots in Persian culture where “gulab” was a type of rosewater used for medicinal purposes. Over time, the concept evolved into what we now know as the julep, which was introduced to the English language in the 1600s.
By the 1700s, the term “julap” was described as an “extemporaneous form of medicine made of simple and compound water sweetened.” While still used medicinally, it eventually transformed into a drink made with spirits like rum or brandy, sweetened water, and mint. When Americans began distilling bourbon in Kentucky, it replaced the traditional spirits, leading to the creation of the modern mint julep.
The Mint Julep at the Kentucky Derby
The mint julep has deep ties to the Kentucky Derby, with its official roots dating back to the late 1930s when Churchill Downs started serving it in souvenir julep cups. However, its association with horse racing predates this by several decades. In 1816, there was the first written mention of a julep cup being awarded as a horse racing trophy, indicating that juleps were highly prized and linked to the sport.
According to Kentucky-based master distiller Chris Morris, the presence of mint leaves outside the clubhouse at Churchill Downs in 1875 suggests that juleps were already a part of the event. Even during Prohibition, the drink remained a staple, with the press lamenting its absence from the Derby.
The Cost and Popularity of Mint Juleps
During the Kentucky Derby, a standard mint julep costs $15, and visitors receive a souvenir glass to take home. However, there are also more luxurious options available. For instance, some attendees can purchase drinks for $1,000 in special silver cups adorned with rubies shaped like horseshoes. Only 130 of these cups were made.
For those seeking an even more extravagant option, there have been instances of mint juleps priced at $2,500, served in gold cups. These were extremely limited, with only 18 made.
Each year, nearly 120,000 mint juleps are sold during the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby. The drinks, made with Old Forester’s mint julep ready-to-serve cocktail, require 10,000 bottles of the mix, 1,000 pounds of mint, and 60,000 pounds of ice.
How to Make a Mint Julep
Making a mint julep at home is surprisingly simple. Most home bars will have all the necessary ingredients except for fresh mint leaves. To prepare a basic mint julep, muddle mint leaves with 0.5 ounces of simple syrup at the bottom of a glass. Add two ounces of bourbon and some crushed ice, then stir the cocktail and garnish with additional mint leaves.
There are numerous variations of the recipe. The Food Network offers a version that includes seltzer water, while Old Forester provides a ready-to-serve option that only requires adding simple syrup and mint leaves.
Best Bourbon for a Mint Julep
While the Kentucky Derby uses Old Forester bourbon for its mint juleps, there are other excellent choices for home use. Distiller recommends Woodford Reserve as the best bourbon, followed by Bulleit Bourbon and Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon. Bourbon Inspector suggests Elijah Craig Small Batch, Four Roses, or Jack Daniels as top options.
Making Mint Juleps for a Crowd
Hosting a Kentucky Derby watch party? Consider making a pitcher of mint juleps instead of individual servings. Combine two cups of sugar with two cups of water and simmer until the sugar dissolves. Add three bunches of mint leaves and let the mixture stand for at least an hour or overnight. Strain the mix to create mint simple syrup, then add it to 2.5 cups of bourbon in a pitcher. Refrigerate until ready to serve, and garnish with mint leaves.
Non-Alcoholic Mint Juleps
For those who prefer non-alcoholic versions, the Kentucky Derby provides a simple recipe. Mix 0.5 ounce of mint simple syrup with unsweetened tea, stir, and garnish with mint. If mint simple syrup is not available, mix equal parts sugar and water, bring to a simmer, add mint leaves, and let stand for several hours before straining.
