Kim Laidlaw

Classic: Mint Julep

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Preparation info
  • Makes

    1

    Drink
    • Difficulty

      Easy

Appears in
Spirits of '76: Celebrating 250 Years with Cocktails from Every State
Spirits of '76

By Kim Laidlaw

Published 2026

  • About

Rooted in Kentucky tradition, the mint julep is a timeless blend of bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice. Popularized at the Kentucky Derby and deeply tied to the state’s bourbon heritage, this refreshing sipper has been a Southern staple since the eighteenth century—cool, crisp, and unmistakably Kentucky.

Ingredients

  • 9 fresh mint leaves
  • 1 ounce mint simple syrup
  • 2 ounces

Method

In a rocks glass, muddle 8 of the mint leaves and the simple syrup. Add the bourbon and lime juice, pack the glass tightly with crushed ice, and stir until the glass is frosted on the outside. Top with more crushed ice to form a dome. Garnish with the remaining mint leaf and the lime wedge and serve.