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Mint Julep cocktail in a copper mug
BOURBON WHISKEY · COPPER MUG · BUILD

Mint Julep

★ 4.1 · 67 ratings in Cocktail Art

The Mint Julep is a classic, sweet, and highly refreshing cocktail traditionally associated with the American South and the Kentucky Derby. It combines the rich, caramel notes of bourbon whiskey with the cooling freshness of muddled mint and a touch of sweetness. Served ice-cold in a copper mug, it is the ultimate summer drink for warm afternoons.

  • IBA official
  • Sweet
  • Refreshing
  • Classic
  • Strong
  • GlassCopper mug
  • MethodBuild
  • Time3 min
  • Strength≈ 31% ABV
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How to make a Mint Julep

Build it in a copper mug with crushed ice. About 3 minutes.

  1. Place the brown sugar cube, water, and mint sprigs into a copper mug.
  2. Gently muddle the ingredients in the bottom of the mug to release the mint oils and dissolve the sugar.
  3. Fill the copper mug to the top with crushed ice.
  4. Pour in the whiskey and stir well until the mug becomes frosted on the outside.
  5. Garnish with a fresh mint leaf.

Bartender’s tips

  • Gently clap the mint sprigs between your hands before muddling to release the aromatic oils without bruising the leaves, which can cause bitterness.
  • If you do not have bourbon, you can substitute it with rye whiskey for a spicier profile, or Japanese whisky for a lighter taste.
  • Ensure you use plenty of finely crushed ice; it melts slowly to dilute the strong whiskey while keeping the copper mug frosty cold.

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If you enjoy the rich, warming flavors of a Mint Julep, you might also like these classic whiskey-based cocktails: Irish Coffee, Honey B, Whisky Cola, and Boulevardier.

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Mint Julep questions

Which whiskey is best for a Mint Julep?

A high-quality bourbon whiskey is the traditional choice, but you can also use rye whiskey or Japanese whisky depending on your preference.

How strong is a Mint Julep?

The Mint Julep is a relatively strong drink with an alcohol by volume of about 31%, as it consists mostly of bourbon diluted only by a small amount of water and melting ice.

Can I use granulated sugar instead of a sugar cube?

Yes, you can substitute the one brown sugar cube with one teaspoon of granulated brown sugar or simple syrup, dissolved in the 10 ml of water.