The Perfect Mint Julep for Derby Day

The Kentucky Derby is booming this weekend with great spirit, high hopes and beautifully stylish hats.  But we mustn't forget another highlight of the event...The Mint Julep.  Mint Juleps (made with fine Bourbon, mint, sugar and ice) are synonymous with the Kentucky Derby, the historic thoroughbred race and annual kick-off to the Triple Crown series.

 

So in celebration of the event, join the winners circle and try making a batch for your favorite sports fans.  Enjoy!  

 

Ingredients

4 c. Bourbon (preferably Woodford Reserve)

3 bu. Fresh Mint

1 c. Water

1 c. Granulated Sugar

Crushed Ice

 

Method

First, remove about 50 small mint leaves.  Wash and place in a small bowl.  Cover with 3 ounces of the Bourbon.  Allow the leaves to soak for about 20 minutes.  Gather the leaves in a paper towel.  Thoroughly wring the mint over the bowl of Whiskey.  Dip the bundle again and repeat the process several times.  Simple Syrup: Mix 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water in a small saucepan.  Heat to dissolve the sugar.  Stir constantly so the sugar does not burn.  Set aside.   Mint Julep Mixture: Pour 3 1/2 cups of the Bourbon into a large  glass pitcher.  Add 1 cup of the simple syrup to the Bourbon.  Now begin adding the mint extract one tablespoon at a time to the Julep mixture.  Taste and adjust as you go.  When you think it tastes right, pour the whole mixture back into the glass pitcher and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight.  To serve:  Fill each glass with crushed ice, pour the Mint Julep cocktail over the ice and garnish with a sprig of mint.  Serve immediately.

 

The Perfect Mint Julep