Mint Julep

Anyone who is into horse racing will be familiar with this, the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby during which some 80,000 juleps are served. Traditionally Mint Juleps are served in silver or pewter cups and held by the handle or rim in order for the cup to obtain optimum frost. As an alternative to muddling the mint and sugar cube you can also infuse a sugar syrup with mint. With this much bourbon in a drink, slow sipping is the appropriate way to imbibe.

View video: How to Make a Mint Julep

INGREDIENTS:

• leaves from 4-5 mint sprigs
• 2 sugar cubes or 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 2 1/2 oz bourbon
• mint sprig for garnish

OR

• 4 oz. of bourbon
• 2 tsp. sugar
• 4-6 mint leaves
• soda water (an option if you prefer it lighter)

PREPARATION:

1. Place the mint and simple syrup or sugar into a julep cup, collins glass or double old-fashioned glass.
2. Muddle well to dissolve the sugar and to release the oil and aroma of the mint.
3. Add the bourbon
4. Fill with crushed ice and stir well until the glass becomes frosty.
5. Garnish with the mint sprig.

http://cocktails.about.com/od/atozcocktailrecipes/r/mnt_jlp_cktl.htm
http://video.about.com/cocktails/Mint-Julep.htm (Useful video that shows you exactly how to muddle & make the drink.)