David Thornton
The Mint Julep is bourbon country in a cup. It's been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1938, but its roots go back centuries. The combination of bourbon, fresh mint, and crushed ice is deceptively simple and incredibly refreshing.
The Cup Matters
A traditional julep cup (silver or pewter) isn't just for show — the metal frosts beautifully and keeps the drink ice cold. A rocks glass works fine at home.
Mint Technique
Gently press the mint — don't shred it. You want to release the aromatic oils without making it bitter. Think of it as coaxing flavour, not crushing it.
