Mint Julep
Crisp mint with bourbon and a hint of sugar; simple and refreshing.
The Mint Julep predates cocktails, and might in fact pre-date American whiskey, its key ingredient. The word Julep comes from the Arabic Julab, the method of combining rose petals and water to scent the water and make a refreshing drink. In one sense “julep” refers to the production method as much as the drink itself. One of the first julep style drinks to be popularized was the Georgia Julep, a mix of brandy and peach liqueur with mint and ice. However, the julep we now know and love has got to be the classic Mint Julep that is drunk at the Kentucky Derby and is also responsible for inspiring the creation of the first commercially produced straws. Buffalo Trace Bourbon Whiskey, mint leaves, a touch of sugar and heaps of crushed ice. Traditionally served in a silver julep cup with straws and a generous garnish of mint leaves; the idea being to bury your nose in the garnish as you sip from the straw.
