As all eyes focus on the fastest two minutes in sport, all the arduous waiting is more palatable with a cocktail in hand. While Churchill Downs has the traditional Old Forester Mint Julep or the Woodford Spire fill many classes, some people thirst for a juicy rendition of the classic. These fruity juleps are sweet, bright and a little potent. Which one will you sip during the Run for the Roses?
A mint julep is a fairly simple cocktail. The combination of a great bourbon, sugar, mint and the right type of ice makes for a refreshing sipper on a warm May day. Even though the libation can be potent, it is bright, sweet and quite enjoyable.
Since classic cocktails are well-served by modern twists, fruity juleps add another flavor layer to the mix. From juicy stone fruit to sweet berries, the options are many.
Shake up a Derby Cocktail Twist with these Fruity Juleps
Peach Julep
Bourbon and peaches are a wonderful combination. It is a Southern pairing that works well in cocktails, barbecue and a myriad of food recipes.
For this cocktail, the orange bitters help the cocktail from becoming cloyingly sweet. The mint adds a burst of coolness, too.
When paired with some burnt ends, pulled pork or even a burgoo, the food and beverage pairing is delicious. It even can work as a dessert pairing with some bread pudding or even spoon bread.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon
- 0.5 oz peach syrup
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 8 fresh mint leaves
- Pebble ice
Directions:
- Muddle mint with peach syrup in a julep cup. Add bourbon and crushed ice. Pack tight. Swizzle or stir until the cocktail is well chilled. Add more ice to create a dome. Add bitters. Garnish.
The Immaculate Refreshment (Mint Julep Twist)
While mint is the traditional herb in the classic cocktail, this riff uses basil. Providing a more savory note, the libation has depth and character.
Pairing with a juicy strawberry and a bright lime, the cocktail is perfect for the start of the summer season. For anyone who loves a sunny cocktail vibe, this bourbon drink will be on the menu long after Derby Day.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bradshaw Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 large strawberry, hulled and quartered
- 4 fresh basil leaves
- Garnish: strawberry half and basil sprig
Method
- Shake all ingredients with ice for 4-6 seconds. Pour unstrained into a Collins glass. Garnish and serve.
Maryland Mint Julep
While Maryland hosts its own race in the Triple Crown, Sagamore Spirit created this twist on the Kentucky’s Run for the Roses cocktail. Using the brand’s signature high-rye and low-rye whiskeys, the slightly spicy yet impeccably smooth flavor is the perfect backdrop to the fragrant mint.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Sagamore Spirit Small Batch Rye Whiskey
- 8 mint leaves
- 0.25 oz simple syrup
- Fresh mint for garnish
- Crushed ice – this is a must!
Method:
- In a cup, lightly muddle the fresh mint leaves with the simple syrup. Add the Sagamore Spirit Small Batch Rye Whiskey. Pack the cup with crushed ice. Give a stir to combine and chill ingredients. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
Jitterbug Julep
Another juicy twist on the tradition julep. Chicken Cock Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon features sweet and tart raspberries. While this fruit and mint combination is unusual, it has a slightly whimsical twist. In a way, it feels like a warm breeze off a lake – simple, summery and quite refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Chicken Cock Wheated Kentucky Straight Bourbon
- 6 to 7 mint leaves
- .5 oz Simple syrup
- .5 oz Raspberry Liqueur
- Garnish: Raspberry
Method:
- Muddle mint leaves in a mason jar, once muddled toss leaves, add simple syrup, raspberry Liqueur, and Chicken Cock Small Batch Bourbon. Add crushed ice to the rim. Garnish with mint and a raspberry.
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