Lush Life

Combine bourbon, mint, and sugar and then stir in the most famous horse race in the world, and you have a tradition that goes back years and our first cocktail to be given its very own episode.

Sponsored by Kentucky Tourism, our episode today is all about the Mint Julep and how it found its way to being THE official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby. I am joined by Stacy Yates, the Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the city of Louisville, the home of the Kentucky Derby and a city I love.

Have you ever been to Kentucky? It’s best known for its famous bourbon and legendary horse country, but the Bluegrass State offers so much more, including a world of outdoor adventure, an explosive culinary scene, fascinating cultural heritage sites, and a vibrant art and music scene. 

Did you know it has the longest known cave system in the world, pristine lakes and attractions, such as the Muhammad Ali Center, African American Heritage Trails, and the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum? I loved it, and I know that Kentucky invites you to come visit, listen, and explore. You can discover the Bluegrass State by visiting, www.kentuckytourism.com

The Derby is the first Saturday in May, so you have plenty of time to practice making Mint Juleps, our cocktail of the week, before the big day. 

INGREDIENTS 

• 2 cups sugar (256g)
• 2 cups water (270ml)
• Sprigs of fresh mint
• Crushed ice
• Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• Silver Julep Cups

METHOD

• Make a simple syrup by boiling sugar and water together for five minutes.
• Cool and place in a covered container with six or eight sprigs of fresh mint, then refrigerate overnight if you have time.
• Make one Julep at a time by filling a julep cup with crushed ice.
• Add one tablespoon mint syrup and two ounces of Kentucky Bourbon.
• Stir rapidly with a spoon to frost the outside of the cup.
• Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

You’ll find this recipe, more places to drink Mint Juleps in Kentucky, and all the cocktails of the week, at alushlifemanual.com, where you’ll also find all the ingredients in our shop.

Full Episode Details: https://alushlifemanual.com/how-to-drink-the-kentucky-derby-mint-julep

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