Mint Julep

Pro tips

• Gently muddle the mint leaves with honey to release oils without bruising or shredding the leaves, which can create bitterness.
• Chill the cup (preferably silver, pewter, or a sturdy glass) with crushed ice before assembly to maintain the drink's cold temperature.
• Add bourbon to honey-mint base and stir gently to combine, then top with fresh crushed ice and garnish with a mint sprig and shaved honeycomb for authentic presentation.
• Use fresh mint picked just before serving; the aromatics are essential to the drink's character and decline quickly after cutting.

Substitutions

• Woodford Reserve bourbon → any premium Kentucky bourbon (Maker's Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Four Roses)
• Honey sweetener → rich simple syrup or gomme syrup (1:1 ratio by volume)
• Fresh mint → Kentucky spearmint or garden mint varieties (avoid dried)

Storage & make-ahead

Mint juleps are best served immediately after preparation; they do not keep well and should not be made ahead with all ingredients combined.

Equipment

Lewis bag or crushed ice maker · Bar spoon or cocktail stirrer · Silver, pewter, or sturdy glass cup · Muddler or cocktail muddler

What is the difference between a mint julep and a mojito?

A mint julep uses bourbon, honey or simple syrup, and crushed ice served in a silver or pewter cup, while a mojito uses rum, lime juice, sugar, and soda water. The mint julep is spirit-forward and chilled, whereas a mojito is refreshing and citrus-based.

Can I make mint juleps ahead for a party?

Prepare the bourbon and honey mixture up to 2 hours ahead, but add fresh mint and crushed ice just before serving to preserve the mint's aroma and prevent dilution.

What type of mint works best for a mint julep?

Kentucky spearmint is traditional and preferred for its delicate flavor, but fresh garden mint or peppermint work as alternatives. Avoid dried mint.

Why is crushed ice important in a mint julep?

Crushed ice chills the drink quickly and creates a frost on the outside of the cup, which is visually iconic and keeps the cocktail cold longer than larger ice cubes.

Can I substitute Woodford Reserve bourbon?

Yes, use another high-quality Kentucky bourbon like Maker's Mark or Buffalo Trace. Woodford Reserve is the official choice at Churchill Downs, but any premium bourbon works.