If you’re wondering what’s in a mint julep, the clue is very much in the name. Mint is a core component of this cocktail and brings the signature freshness to the drink. As such, you’ll need to purchase the best mint you can find. Look for evenly coloured leaves, with no dark spots. And make sure you clap the mint between your palms before muddling or using as a garnish. This simple trick helps to open up the aromatics, adding even more fragrant flavour to your drink.
Another simple trick with a mint julep is to position the straw right next to the mint sprig garnish. This means with every sip you’ll smell the mint, enhancing the aromas and flavours in the cocktail. It’s essential to use a straw to sip this drink. If you try drinking it straight from the cup, you’re likely to find a lot of the crushed ice will fall out.
The mint julep was invented in the Southern states of the US and, as a result, features bourbon. As the cocktail is built around the flavours of this spirit, opt for a premium expression for a smoother and richer finish in your cocktail. It is possible to use other styles of whisky, such as Scotch, to create a mint julep, but it’ll bring a different dimension to the drink. Using Scotch whisky in this cocktail can add a warming and creamy profile to the drink, depending on the brand you choose. Whether you mix this cocktail with bourbon, Scotch or Japanese whisky, it’s worth being aware that the alcohol content in your final drink will vary based on the brand used.
Why crushed ice matters in a julep
Traditional mint julep ingredients feature only crushed ice, never cubed ice. The drink was designed to be served over a bed of ice that frosts and chills the pewter julep cup. This gives the drink its classic and distinctive cooling look. If you’re unable to find crushed ice at your local store, you can use a rolling pin or mallet to crush the ice in a ziplock bag, wrapped in a clean towel.
Traditional glassware and garnish tips
A mint julep is traditionally served in a metal, pewter cup. Packed full of ice, it frosts over and keeps the drink cool. The drink was created this way to stay cool as long as possible during the intense heat of the summer in the Southern states. Alongside the visual appeal, it also keeps the flavours fresh and you can easily taste the difference between a mint julep made in a glass, and one made in a metal cup.
Given the cocktail’s name, a sprig of mint is the go-to garnish for this much-loved drink. Some bartenders will go one step further, however and add a bunch of blueberries for the garnish too. Now you know how to make a mint julep, try mixing up a selection of the 20 most popular cocktails from around the world.
