- 60 ml good oaky high-strength (50%+) bourbon
- 8 ml 2:1 simple syrup
- 8 mint leaves
- Angostura bitters
In a highball glass, or metal Julep cup if you happen to possess one, muddle the mint leaves in the simple syrup. Add the bourbon then pack the glass tightly with crushed ice. Stir until the glass is frosted on the outside. Splash on a few drops of bitters. Slap a sprig of mint on your wrist to release the aromatic oils and place on top.
Mint Juleps are associated with the American South in general, the Kentucky Derby in particular. More than 120,000 have been sold over the two-day period. In his classic article, ‘The Kentucky Derby is Decadent and Depraved’, Hunter Thompson noted:
“By mid-afternoon they’ll be guzzling mint juleps with both hands and vomiting on each other between races.”
Since bourbon is the only liquid in the drink, you must use a good quality brand. A high proof bourbon will keep the crushed ice from diluting the cocktail too quickly.