Born in the American South and forever linked to the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep is a simple, spirit-forward cocktail that highlights a good bourbon, fresh mint, and ritualized crushed ice in a chilled silver julep cup. Classic juleps date back to the 18th century as medicinal tonics that evolved into a Derby staple; what makes a great version is balance—not masking the bourbon with too much sugar or bruised mint. Use a flavorful straight bourbon, bright young spearmint, and real crushed ice, and turn the drink once or twice to chill and dilute. If you're sourcing ingredients in Buffalo, seek small-batch bourbons at our store for best results.
Ingredients
| 2 ½ oz | bourbon |
| ½ oz | simple syrup (1:1) |
| 10 leaves | fresh mint leaves (muddle) |
| 1 cup | crushed ice |
| 4 leaves | mint leaves (generous bouquet for garnish) |
Instructions
- Chill a julep cup or rocks glass in the freezer for a few minutes and lightly slap the mint leaves between your palms to wake the oils.
- Place the slapped mint leaves in the chilled cup with the simple syrup and gently muddle just to bruise the leaves, avoiding shredding them.
- Add the bourbon and fill the cup about two-thirds with crushed ice, then stir briskly for 8–10 seconds to chill and achieve proper dilution.
- Pack more crushed ice into a domed crown above the rim to insulate the drink and present the classic julep profile.
- Give the garnish mint a quick slap to release aromatics, nestle a generous bouquet into the ice, insert a short straw at the back, and serve immediately.
Shop the Bottles
Pick up everything you need at Buffalo House Liquor & Wines in Tonawanda, NY — same-day delivery across Buffalo, Kenmore, Williamsville, and surrounding areas, or grab them in-store.
Kentucky Bourbon for Juleps
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