Mint Julep

Mint Julep vs Mojito

A Mint Julep and Mojito both feature mint and a sweet component, but they differ in several ways. First, a Mint Julep uses bourbon as its base spirit, while a Mojito uses white rum. This gives the Mint Julep a robust, woody flavor and the Mojito a lighter, more tropical taste. Second, a Mint Julep traditionally uses simple syrup for sweetness, whereas a Mojito uses granulated sugar and lime juice, adding sweetness and tartness. Third, the Mint Julep is a staple of Southern American culture, closely tied to events like the Kentucky Derby, while the Mojito hails from Cuba and carries a more tropical vibe. Fourth, a Mint Julep is served over crushed ice in a Julep cup or an Old Fashioned glass, while a Mojito is usually served in a highball glass with ice cubes. Finally, the Mojito often includes soda water, giving it a fizzy element you won’t find in a Mint Julep.

The Mocktail version: Disneyland Mint Julep

The Disneyland Mint Julep offers a non-alcoholic take on the classic Southern drink, making it family-friendly and refreshing. Instead of bourbon, this mocktail version uses lemonade and soda water as its base, giving it a light, fizzy character. The mint flavor comes from creme de menthe syrup, which adds a sweet, herbal note. Like the original drink, the Disneyland version is served over crushed ice, making it incredibly refreshing.

What is a Mint Julep with Vodka?

A Mint Julep with vodka swaps out the traditional bourbon for vodka as the base spirit. This change gives the drink a cleaner, more neutral flavor profile, allowing the mint and simple syrup to take center stage. While it lacks the woody, robust notes of a bourbon-based version, the vodka version offers a lighter, more straightforward taste. 

Why are mint Juleps so expensive?

The cost of a Mint Julep can skyrocket, especially at high-profile events like the Kentucky Derby, and there’s a reason for that. First, the quality of the bourbon matters. Premium, aged bourbon can significantly drive up the price. Then there’s the traditional silver or pewter Julep cup, which adds to the experience and cost.

Mint Julep Variations

Want to add something to the original? Try one of our recommended variations:

• Blackberry Mint Julep: Muddled blackberries add a tartness that beautifully complements the bourbon, infusing a fruity twist and giving the drink a deep purple hue. I particularly enjoy the contrast between the blackberries’ tartness and the bourbon’s sweetness, creating a refreshing and harmonious experience.
• Peach Mint Julep: Fresh peach puree brings a sweet, summery note to this mix. It blends smoothly with the mint and bourbon, offering a refreshing yet rich flavor. The natural sweetness of the peach wonderfully counters the crispness of the mint, making it an ideal summer day refreshment.
• Ginger Mint Julep: A splash of ginger beer or syrup introduces a zesty kick, adding a spicy and vibrant dimension that pairs well with the mint. The warmth and spice of the ginger invigorate the senses, making this a great choice for those who enjoy a spicy twist.
• Cherry Mint Julep: Muddled cherries in this drink provide a sweet-tart flavor that balances the herbal mint notes. The cherries not only deepen the flavor but also enhance the visual appeal with their beautiful ruby color.
• Honey Mint Julep: Replacing simple syrup with honey, this drink offers a unique and comforting floral sweetness. The natural sweetness and subtle floral notes of honey create a nuanced and rich flavor. I’m particularly fond of the smooth, velvety texture honey adds, making every sip feel indulgent.
• Lavender Mint Julep: Lavender-infused simple syrup brings a floral aroma that elevates the minty freshness, adding a sophisticated and aromatic quality. This transformation makes the traditional drink more elegant and soothing.
• Cucumber Mint Julep: Muddled cucumber adds refreshing crispness, perfectly matching the cool and fresh flavor of the mint. This combination results in an incredibly refreshing drink, ideal for hot summer days.
• Pineapple Mint Julep: Pineapple juice adds a vibrant tropical flair with its refreshing sweetness and tartness. This lively and exciting choice is perfect for those who enjoy fruity and refreshing flavors.

Kentucky Derby – History and Origin of the Mint Julep

The Mint Julep has deep roots in the Southern United States, particularly in Kentucky, where it enjoys its status as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. “julep” originally comes from the Arabic word “julab,” which refers to a sweet rosewater drink. Over time, the concept traveled to the Mediterranean, where people replaced rosewater with indigenous mint. Eventually, the drink made its way to the American South.

In the early 19th century, farmers in the South would start their day with a Mint Julep, believing it to be a tonic. The drink initially featured a variety of spirits, including rum and brandy, but bourbon became the spirit of choice as it gained prominence in the region. The cocktail’s association with the Kentucky Derby began in 1938, and since then, Churchill Downs has served hundreds of thousands of Mint Juleps to Derby-goers every year.

The cocktail also has literary mentions, appearing in works by famous authors like William Faulkner and F. Scott Fitzgerald, which helped cement its place in American culture.