Mint julep is a cocktail that is prepared by muddling mint leaves and adding sugar and bourbon. It is traditionally served in a silver or pewter cup, called a julep cup. The drink has been known for centuries as Planter's Punch, but as the cocktail developed as an integral part of American high-class society during the 19th century, it became known as the more refined sounding "Mint Julep".
The story of its origins can be traced back to 1838 when it was served at the Louisville Jockey Club near Louisville, Kentucky. In Tennessee, they call it a "julep" but in Kentucky it may be called a "mint julep." In Japan and Thailand it's called a “cooling drink” or “refreshing drink” respectively.
Spirit Used
Whiskey
Ingredients
½ ounce Simple Syrup
2 ½ ounce Bourbon whiskey
5 Sprig(s) Fresh mint leaves
Recipe
1. Pour syrup into silver julep cup, silver mug, or Collins glass.
2. Fill with shaved or crushed ice and add bourbon. Stir until glass is heavily frosted, adding more ice if necessary. (Do not hold glass with hand while stirring.) 3. Garnish with mint so that the tops are about 2 inches above rim of glass.
4. Use short straws so that it will be necessary to bury nose in mint, which is intended for scent rather than taste.
5. Serve in a Collins Glass.
