Mint Julep

The Mint Julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby for almost a century now, and the fastest two minutes in sports just wouldn't feel right without a frosted silver cup in one hand. The origins of this drink predate the Derby by several centuries though. Like many of its cousins, the Julep was originally drunk for medicinal purposes. The name comes from the Arabic word julab and the Persian word gulab, which both translate to “rosewater”. In the early days of America, people made juleps with a number of spirits including rum and brandy, but history seems to suggest that the original julep was actually made with cognac. At the time, bourbon was reserved mostly for poor southerners who couldn't afford fine liquor. My how the proverbial tables have turned. Next time you're in bourbon country, be sure to try one of these classic southern libations.