Icy Mint Julep with Mint Garnish on a Platter Next to Maker's Mark Bottle

Classic Mint Julep

With pronounced sugar and mint notes, the Mint Julep is one of our favorite bourbon cocktails and a natural match for warmer weather, horse races and good company.

Ingredients

2 parts Maker's Mark^® Bourbon
1/2 part simple syrup
Fresh mint leaves

Pro Tips

Sweeten the deal: You want simple? In a sauce pan, dissolve a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water together over medium heat and cool. Double the sugar for thicker syrup.
Muddle gently: Avoid over-muddling or using too much force. Bruising your mint can result in unwanted bitterness.
Give it a slap: Slapping the mint against your wrist or hand before using it as a garnish can actually stimulate its fragrance.
Julep cups: Like many cocktails, the vessel you serve it in can enhance the experience. Pewter julep cups look beautiful frosted over when filled with crushed ice and should be held from the top or bottom.
Use a straw: The straw was invented so folks could more easily – and gracefully – enjoy their Mint Juleps. We encourage this, but please consider a reusable or biodegradable version.

How to

Add all mint and syrup to a julep cup.
Gently muddle mint to express the oils.
Add crushed ice.
Pour Maker's Mark over (preferably crushed) ice.
Stir and garnish with a mint sprig.

A favorite of bourbon lovers and race fans History of the Mint Julep

The word "julep" derives from the Spanish Arabic "julepe" and from "goláb," the Persian word for "rosewater." The mint julep became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938 but was actually invented in Virginia, where many took it as medicine for stomach ailments. Originally made with brandy or rum, this Southern favorite nears perfection when bourbon, particularly Maker's Mark, is used as the spirit of choice.