Mint Julep

Name: Mint Julep (Classic Bourbon Cocktail)
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 sprig Mint; 2 tsp Powdered Sugar; 2 tsp Water; 2 1/2 oz Old Mr. Boston Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

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A mint julep is a classic bourbon cocktail that combines fresh mint, powdered sugar, water, and Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey for a cooling, aromatic drink. It's traditionally served over crushed ice in a silver or pewter cup.

More like this:🏷️Equipment: collins glass

Total

5 min

Servings

4

Recipe Source

Visit Mr. Boston Drinks

From Mr. Boston Drinks · by Old Mr. Boston De Luxe Official Bartender's Guide

Ingredients

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4 sprig Mint
2 tsp Powdered Sugar
2 tsp Water
2 1/2 oz Old Mr. Boston Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

4 Ingredients

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Instructions

1
Into Silver Mug or 12 oz.
2
Tom Collins glass put:
3
4 Sprigs of Mint
4
1 Teaspoon Powdered Sugar
5
2 Teaspoons of Water, and muddle
6
Fill glass or mug with shaved ice, add 2 1/2 oz.
7
Boston Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, and stir gently until glass is frosted.
8
Decorate with slice of orange, lemon, pineapple and a cherry Insert 5 or 6 sprigs of mint on top.
9
Serve with straws.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Press mint gently against the sugar to bruise and release essential oils without pulverizing leaves, which causes bitterness
Use crushed ice (not cubes) packed tightly in the glass—it melts slower and keeps the cocktail colder longer
Chill the serving glass or cup with ice water before filling to maintain the ideal drinking temperature
Garnish with a fresh mint sprig inserted vertically into the crushed ice for aroma and authenticity

Substitutions

Old Mr. Boston Kentucky Straight Bourbon → Maker's Mark or Woodford Reserve (slightly sweeter profile)
Powdered sugar → superfine sugar (dissolves equally well, no cornstarch additive)

Storage & make-ahead

Mint juleps are best served immediately after assembly. Prepare the mint-sugar-water mixture up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate; add bourbon and crushed ice just before serving.

Equipment

muddler or wooden spoon · crushed ice (Lewis bag and mallet recommended) · cocktail mixing glass · bar spoon

Common Questions

What type of bourbon should I use for a mint julep?

Use a quality Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. Old Mr. Boston Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a traditional choice, though other mid-range bourbons work well. Avoid premium bottles—the mint and sugar mask subtle flavors.

Should I muddle the mint or just stir it?

Gently press the mint against the sugar and water to release oils without crushing the leaves, which can make the drink bitter. Light pressing is key.

Can I make a mint julep ahead of time?

Prepare the mint-sugar-water base up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add bourbon and ice just before serving to keep it cold and properly diluted.

What's the best way to crush ice for a mint julep?

Use a Lewis bag and mallet, blender, or food processor to create small, densely-packed crushed ice. This melts slowly and keeps the drink cold longer.