The closest I’ve ever come to attending the Kentucky Derby was sitting indoors at the local racetrack sipping pre-made mint juleps while watching the actual race on TV with my husband and like, four other people. Not quite the experience we were looking for, but it does make me laugh every time I think about it. Ooo, actually, I was in Vegas with girlfriends during the derby one year (and even met a few IGE readers as we cheered on our horses at the pool bar!) but technically Iowa is closer to Kentucky then Nevada, so we’re going with the horseless, ill-attended local derby party instead. Ha! Anyway, things are looking up this year! We’ve been invited to attend a watch party hosted by friends, and derby attire is required. I’ve got my fascinator ready to go, and an easy cocktail recipe to sip on too. Lemon-Ginger Mint Juleps are just the thing to feel like you’re heading to Churchill Downs no matter where you might be!
Mint Juleps with a Lemon Twist
I also don’t usually drink anything resembling a mint julep – the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby – 364 days a year, but on derby day? Bring on the bourbon. Mint Juleps are a combination of bourbon, simple syrup, and mint, and when done right (ie not too much simple syrup,) they are super, super delicious. Wanting to give the classic cocktail my own little spin, I decided to add a lemon wedge and splash of ginger ale. Forget my old derby day rule – we’ll be making these all summer long. So refreshing!
Recipe Notes:
Crushed vs cubes: Like regular Mint Juleps, this easy cocktail recipe calls for crushed ice. Not only does it give you that classic derby drink experience, but it also serves a purpose. Crushed ice melts faster then ice cubes, diluting the drink and noticeably changing it’s flavor. In a good way! That said, I always wait a few minutes between pouring and taking my first sip. Slap the mint: If you order a Mint Julep at a bar you’ll get a sprig of mint stuffed inside. It’s fun and festive. BUT, when making Lemon-Ginger Mint Juleps at home, go a step further and slap the mint first. Place a big mint sprig in one hand then slap/clap it with the other before popping it into the ice. This releases the mint’s oils which you’ll get a whiff of every time you take a sip. Bourbon flavored: This might go without saying, but if you don’t like bourbon, you probably won’t like this drink. ;)
How to Make this Drink
For one cocktail, add a lemon wedge, mint leaves, and simple syrup to the bottom of a cocktail shaker or wide-mouth mason jar. Use the handle of a wooden spoon, or a muddler if you’ve got one, to muddle the ingredients just enough. Not too much or the mint can turn bitter.
Add a couple handfuls of ice cubes to your shaker or jar then pour bourbon on top and use the handle to stir the drink until it’s very cold. Mint Juleps are typically stirred, not shaken, so stir even if you’re using a shaker. I’ve used both Maker’s Mark and Bulleit bourbons to make this drink. Old Forester is The Mint Julep Bourbon, so that’s another good option too!
Pack a rocks glass with crushed ice then strain the drink inside. Top with ginger ale (I love Fever Tree brand) then garnish with a big sprig of slapped mint, which is a fun party trick if you’re making this drink for guests. Whether you’re enjoying this easy cocktail recipe for the derby or any ol’ day of the year – enjoy, and CHEERS!
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