This past Saturday the Kentucky Derby had its 143rd running at Churchhill Downs. The Derby, also known as “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports”, lived up to the hype as there was no clear cut favorite this year, AND the field of 20 horses had to storm around a super muddy track—facts that led to some super colorful betting analysis & decisions at the party I attended. 🙂 Exciting times to be had by all, good thing we had plenty of good food, good drink, and good camaraderie to get us though.
Kentucky Derby Traditions
The Derby is full of traditions: the roses, women in big hats, nattily dressed gentlemen, and, of course, mint juleps! My Derby tradition includes all of this, plus going to Josh & Megan Cathey‘s Derby party. A now annual event that got its start due to our mutual curiosity.
I remember the day we were sitting around discussing cocktails and mint juleps came up. We were both intrigued, yet slightly afraid after eyeing the ingredients. But after looking into the history, we decided she should host a Derby party so we could taste mint juleps with no judgement. 🙂 And from there, a tradition was born! To help celebrate this, mint juleps are my Cocktail of the Month for May.
Side note– Megan is single handedly responsible for exposing me to world of good wine and bespoke cocktails. As neighbors, we explored lots of spirits & beverages over the years. In fact, our sense of adventure and dedication to tasty and flavorful libations helped cement a sisterhood that has spanned over a decade.
Mint Julep Recipe
Mint Julep is the official drink of the Derby, having been served there since 1938. The julep is a simple cocktail consisting of bourbon, mint, sugar, & water, served in a silver or pewter mug.
Yes, bourbon and mint. And yes, it’s a rather strong drink with a bit of an acquired taste, but you can’t have a Derby party without it. 😉
Here is Megan’s recipe for making this classic cocktail in big batches for serving a crowd:
Ingredients:
- Bourbon (Woodford Reserve is traditional, but any bourbon will do)
- Mint simple syrup (recipe below)
Directions:
- Make simple syrup by combing equal parts water and sugar ( 3 cups water, 3
cups sugar) and a bunch of fresh mint leaves in a pot. Heat on the stove, cooking until the sugar melts. Remove from heat, allow syrup to cool, strain mint. Keep in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. - Combine mint simple syrup and bourbon in a pitcher
- The measurements are not exact, but it’s roughly 3 cups of bourbon to equal parts mint simple syrup. I suggest adding the simple syrup in 1/2 cup batches, tasting along the way. Stop when you reach your desired level of sweetness.
- Serve over ice.
Enjoy with friends as you cheer your favorite horse on!
Here are a few snaps from the Derby parties over the years. Plenty of sassy hats & natty gentlemen. 😉
11 Comments
Look at that cocktail! It looks sooo tasty!
It’s my bday on Saturday, so I’ll add this to my party menu!
Thanks for sharing 🙂
It’s very tasty Maria. Definitely a unique cocktail to have at a Birthday celebration.
So that’s what a mint julep is. Heard of them, only a hazy idea of what they actually consisted of. Wonder why it’s called a ‘julep’? The party looks like fun, either way!
We were hazy on them too Sol, which is why we felt compelled to plot out an entire event just to have a reason to try them. 😂😂
Looks like a refreshing drink. Would have to try this recipe that you shared. This might be another addition on my to go cocktail drink.
What a fun time! The cocktail looks especially delightful. One I must try one day soon.
Looks good. Perfect for summer!
I have heard lots about Mint Julep, but have never had one myself. I like mint so it’s worth a try.
I will say, they are definitely an “acquired taste” Donna, but I feel everyone should have at least one in their lifetime. I look forward them each derby day. And if mint is your there, you’ll definitely get more mint flavor if you go with the mint simple syrup vs just muddling it.
Girl after my own heart! I’m a “spirited” bartending traveling mama and I love drinks with a history and tradition.
Excellent! I love meeting kindred spirits! Drinks w/ a story, tradition, or history are just so much fun.