Mint Julep — The most refreshing and cool classic cocktail in the American South 🍃🥃❄️

The Mint Julep is a classic Southern-inspired cocktail originating in Kentucky, USA, and closely tied to the famed Kentucky Derby. Based on bourbon whiskey, it's paired with fresh mint leaves, sugar, and crushed ice for a refreshing, icy, and refreshing drink, making it a perfect summertime treat. I highly recommend this refreshing Mint Julep to friends in Hong Kong! Make a refreshing homemade Mint Julep at home this summer to instantly cool down in the sweltering heat! ✨

Material ratio

• 60ml bourbon whiskey

• About 8-10 fresh mint leaves

• 15 ml simple syrup (made by boiling equal parts sugar and water)

• Lots of crushed ice (shaved ice is fine)

• A bunch of mint sprigs for garnish

Production steps

1. Place the mint leaves and syrup in a silver julep glass and gently pound the mint leaves with a pestle to release the aroma. Be careful not to over-pound the mint leaves, as this will release any bitterness.

2. Add a lot of crushed ice, then pour in the bourbon and stir gently with a long spoon until the entire wall of the glass begins to frost and feels extremely cool.

3. Add crushed ice to make the whole glass more chilled.

4. Finally, garnish with a bunch of fresh mint for a refreshing and charming look and aroma.

Taste characteristics

Mint Julep tastes cool and refreshing, with the sweetness of bourbon whiskey and the freshness of mint perfectly combined. The moderate sweetness of the syrup balances the coolness of the mint and the strong taste of the whiskey, making the whole glass of wine soft and stimulating, refreshing and with a hint of herbal fragrance. It is an excellent cooling cocktail in summer.

Sharing from the editor's perspective

• Traditional mint juleps are served in silver cups, which allow frost to form on the surface of the cup, adding to the cool feeling while drinking and making it even more enjoyable.

• Remember to tap the mint leaves lightly. Tap too hard and it will be bitter, which will greatly reduce the taste! This is the key to whether the drink is good or not.

• It’s safest to make your own syrup. You can easily prepare the ingredients at home and adjust the sweetness according to your personal preference.

• If you don’t want it to be too alcoholic, you can dilute it slightly with soda water, which will make it a very popular summer refreshment.

• Hong Kong's summer heat and humidity are unbearable. A cool mint julep is an instant way to cool down and refresh yourself. It's an American-style drink that's refreshing and comfortable, making it the ideal companion for a party with friends or to relax alone!

The mint julep isn't just a drink; it's a symbol of Southern American culture and one of the most refreshing summer cocktails. Grab a tumbler, crushed ice, and mint leaves to easily make an authentic mint julep at home and experience its refreshing, tangy flavor! 🍹🌿❄️