While theKentucky Derbymay have conk , there ’s no time like the present to enjoy one of the sport ’s most deliciously iconic , refreshing potable : the flock mint julep . Especially when the nowadays — May 30 — is Mint Julep Day . To lionize the vacation , we ’ve compiled tips , tricks and recipes from bartenders across the country , including the mint julep ’s home land of Kentucky .
1. DON’T OVER-MUDDLE THE MINT.
Muddling is one of the most important pace in the mint julep process , according to James Bolt , drink music director and bar manager atThe Gin Jointin Charleston , South Carolina . But do n’t just start ram away ; first , you must understand the cognitive process .
“ Most people think muddling is the hard pounding move of burst up and releasing the flavor , but such force will release a bitter compound , ” say Bolt . “ The keystone is to gently press on the plenty leaves so the natural oil color are released . ”
2. SAVOR THE SMELLS.
The mint mint julep is as much about flavor as it is smell . To capitalize on the mint ’s inherently strong smell , Bolt suggests place your oral sex as close to the straw as potential to soak up the aroma . Cincinnati ’s most respected mixologist , Molly Wellmann , also recommend placing the straw straight down the center of the mint sprig to further excite the senses .
3. RUB THE GLASS.
Take the sensory overburden one tasteful step further by fret the methamphetamine with mint parting prior to pour the drink . This whoremaster belongs to Keri Smith , head word barkeeper atDoc Crow ’s Southern Smokehouse & Raw Barin Louisville , Kentucky . By chafe the shabu , the mint ’s oils last longer , adding that hard , minty olfactory property to each and every sip .
4. USE FRESH, CRUSHED ICE.
While ice is usually an reconsideration , it ’s of utmost importance when it comes to the slew julep . Pros like Bolt and Wellmann opt for freshly crushed ice rather than the standard cube variety , but rest insure : Even if you do n’t have a fancy ice - crushing automobile , you’re able to still make a mean mint mint julep .
“ Use a Lewis bag and a mallet , or a mover and shaker and a muddler , ” Wellmann says . “ Just be sure to use crushed ice ! ”
5. “EXPERI-MINT” WITH ALTERNATIVE INGREDIENTS.
Sure , the deglutition ’s called amintjulep , but you do n’t have to stick solely to mint . Smith has a number of unconventional mint julep concoctions at Doc Crow ’s , such as a mint julep lemonade and a Near Easter Julep that substitutes basil for heap , and includes gingerroot for passion and spice .
6. BRING OUT THE BIG BOURBONS.
A high - stratum drink deserves high - quality pot likker . Fred Minnick , theKentucky Derby Museum’sbourbon authority and drink historiographer , suggest using high - proof Bourbon that “ will stand up to the chalk and stick out . ” His favorites are Baker ’s Bourbon , a seven - year - old , 107 - proof whiskey from Jim Beam , or 107 - proof Old Weller Antique , the only accessible wheated Bourbon dynasty that can handle the mint julep ’s ice .
7. ADD A SPLASH OF RUM.
Why should bourbon have all the fun ? Wellmann likes to spice thing up , top off her mountain juleps with a small dour rum to contribute out the crapulence ’s caramel and vanilla notes .
As you machinate your own concoctions to celebrate today ’s national vacation , here are two recipes to get you well on your way to coin julep perfection .
The Gin Joint Mint Julep , courtesy of James Bolt
Doc Crow ’s Near Eastern Julep , good manners of Keri Smith
