The Bottom Line: May 30th is National Mint Julep Day!
The Full Story:
May 30th is National Mint Julep Day! A mint Julep is a delicious cocktail, which is mostly popular during the summer. This drink is made with bourbon whiskey, mint, water, and sugar. A trick that many bartenders and Julep lovers use is to gently bruise the mint before adding the other ingredients. This enhances the herb’s distinctive flavor and scent. Traditionally, a mint julep is served in a silver or pewter cup filled with shaved ice.
According to many sources, the mint julep was introduced in the 1800’s by Kentucky Senator Henry Clay. As early as 1816, county fair champions in the South received silver julep cups as awards. Today, the mint julep is still associated with the South, and it is known as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. Over the course of the two-day event, almost 120,000 mint juleps are served at Churchill Downs!
The Kentucky Derby may have passed, but that’s no reason to stop enjoying this unique drink. Make one of these cocktails to celebrate!