We list the best mint cocktails! From the classic Mojito and the Julep using fresh mint to the Grasshopper and Emerald Isle using crème de menthe liqueur.
Of all herbs, mint is the most used in cocktails because of its refreshing aroma, vibrant flavor, and versatility. It pairs beautifully with sweet, sour, and even bitter ingredients.
There are several types of mint, but spearmint is the most commonly used in cocktails due to its mild sweetness and bright flavor.
Gently smacking mint leaves brings out their flavor, while a quick slap of a sprig wakes up their aroma. For a sweeter touch, homemade mint simple syrup infuses drinks with a smooth, concentrated mint flavor. We also love using crème de menthe liqueur, which adds a bold, minty kick and a touch of color.
Mojito
The Mojito brings mint leaves, lime, sugar, white rum, and soda water together. The mint gives the drink its fresh, herbal punch. Bartenders sometimes mix in fruits like pineapple, strawberries, or watermelon to create a tropical twist.
Read more: Mojito Variations
Mint Julep
The Mint Julep combines bourbon, mint leaves, sugar, bitters and crushed ice. Using mint delivers a crisp and cooling effect to the drink. Some versions swap spirits: Gin Julep, Rum Julep, and Brandy Julep.
Read more: Julep Variations
Southside
The Southside is a mix of tart lime juice, fresh mint leaves, sweet sugar syrup and botanical Gin. Served in a cocktail glass is the perfect choice for a fancy refreshing drink. Some variations replace gin with vodka or add cucumber for a lighter, fresher vibe.
Whiskey Smash
The Whiskey Smash blends whiskey, mint leaves, lemon wedges, and sugar. The mint balances the bold whiskey, creating a bright, smooth cocktail. Seasonal fruits often make their way into variations for added flavor.
Grasshopper
The Grasshopper mixes crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and heavy cream into a sweet, minty dessert cocktail. Crème de menthe delivers the bold mint flavor and signature green color. For an indulgent twist, some recipes use ice cream instead of cream.
Hugo Spritz
The Hugo Spritz combines elderflower liqueur, Prosecco, soda water, and fresh mint leaves. The mint adds a refreshing herbal note that complements the floral sweetness of the elderflower. It’s a light, bubbly cocktail perfect for warm days.
West Side
A spin on the classic Southside, the West Side uses lemon vodka instead of gin, mint, lime juice, simple syrup, and soda water. The mint brings brightness to the smooth vodka base, creating a crisp and approachable cocktail.
Eastside
Born as a gin-based mojito variation, this drink features gin, lime juice, simple syrup, mint and cucumber shaken together. The cucumber imparts a different layer of aromatic quality to the drink making it the perfect fit for summertime brunches.
Absinthe Frappé
This bold drink blends absinthe, sugar, soda water, and crushed ice, with mint leaves adding a fresh, cooling contrast to absinthe’s strong herbal flavor. The frappé-style preparation makes it icy and refreshing, ideal for adventurous drinkers.
Emerald Isle
The Emerald Isle combines gin, crème de menthe, and bitters for a vibrant, minty cocktail with a touch of bitterness. The crème de menthe delivers its signature mint flavor and green hue, creating a drink that’s bold and visually striking.
Key Techniques for Mint Cocktails: Muddling Mint and Making Mint Simple Syrup
To maximize the flavor of mint in cocktails, focus on two key methods: Bushing mint and preparing mint simple syrup.
- To bush mint, simply smash some mint leaves between your hands a couple of times. This releases their essential oils without tearing them, which can create bitterness.
- To make mint simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a pot with fresh mint leaves. Simmer until the mint flavor infuses the mixture, then strain. This syrup provides a smooth, consistent mint flavor.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint instead of spearmint in cocktails?
Yes, but peppermint has a stronger, sharper flavor. Use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the drink.
How do I store fresh mint for cocktails?
Store mint in a glass of water like a bouquet or wrap it in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag in the fridge.
Can I use dried mint for cocktails?
Dried mint lacks the fresh flavor and aroma of fresh mint. It’s not ideal but can be used in syrups if fresh is unavailable.
What non-alcoholic options use mint?
Mint is great in mocktails like Virgin Mojitos or mint lemonade.
How much mint should I use in a cocktail?
Typically, 6-12 (depending on the size) fresh mint leaves are enough to flavor a cocktail.
What can I use instead of mint in a cocktail?
Basil, cilantro, or even fresh parsley can substitute mint, though they offer different flavor profiles.
How do I make a sugar-free mint cocktail?
Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit in the recipe or create a sugar-free mint simple syrup.
