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The Kentucky Derby Mint Julep is the official cocktail of Churchill Downs, combining fresh mint syrup, Old Forester bourbon, and crushed ice in a silver cup. Nearly 120,000 are served each Kentucky Derby and Oaks weekend.
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Make a simple syrup by boiling sugar and water together for five minutes.
Cool the syrup and place in a covered container with six or eight sprigs of fresh mint.
Refrigerate the mint syrup overnight.
To make one julep, fill a julep cup with crushed ice.
Add one tablespoon of mint syrup and two ounces of Old Forester Kentucky Whisky.
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and serve.
The mint syrup keeps refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; prepare it 1–2 days ahead for Derby parties.
ice crusher or Lewis bag with mallet · silver mint julep cup (traditional but optional) · fine mesh strainer
Yes. The mint simple syrup stores in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container, making it ideal for batch preparation before Derby weekend.
Any straight bourbon works; Old Forester is traditional, but Woodford Reserve, Maker's Mark, or Buffalo Trace are common alternatives with similar proof and flavor.
Traditionally yes—the cup is iconic—but any chilled glass or cup works. Silver conducts cold and enhances the drinking experience but isn't required for flavor.
Use an ice crusher, blender, or Lewis bag with a mallet. Crushed ice melts faster than cubes and is essential for proper dilution and the traditional presentation.
Yes. One batch of syrup (2 cups sugar, 2 cups water, 6–8 mint sprigs) makes roughly 8–10 servings. Mix 2 oz bourbon and 1 tablespoon syrup per drink.
