National Mint Julep Day

Young woman holding a frosty glass of mint julep, wearing a sundress, surrounded by a lush garden.. — National mint julep day illustration

Welcome to National Mint Julep Day! Get ready to raise your glass and celebrate this refreshing cocktail. If you're a fan of bourbon and mint, then today is your lucky day. Learn about the history of the mint julep and discover some fun facts along the way!

When is Mint Julep Day?

It's national mint julep day on the 30th May.

The History of the Mint Julep

The mint julep has a storied past that dates back to the early 1800s. This classic Southern drink was traditionally made with bourbon, sugar, water, and fresh mint. It quickly became a popular choice among horse racing enthusiasts, particularly at the Kentucky Derby.

Legend has it that the mint julep was invented by a Virginian senator who served the drink at parties. The combination of cool mint and smooth bourbon proved to be a winning combination, and the mint julep soon gained a dedicated following.

How to Make a Mint Julep

To make a classic mint julep, you'll need:

2.5 ounces of bourbon
1 teaspoon of granulated sugar
5-6 fresh mint leaves
Crushed ice
Mint sprigs for garnish

Start by muddling the mint leaves and sugar in the bottom of a glass. Add the bourbon and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Fill the glass with crushed ice and garnish with mint sprigs. Sip and enjoy!

Fun Fact: Mint Julep and the Kentucky Derby

Did you know that the Kentucky Derby serves over 120,000 mint juleps during the two-day event? That's a whole lot of bourbon and mint! It's a longstanding tradition at the Derby, where spectators wear fancy hats and raise their glasses to the most exciting two minutes in sports.

History behind the term 'Mint Julep'

1784

The Birth of Mint Julep

The term 'mint julep' is believed to have originated in 1784, when the word 'julep' was recorded in a letter written by a British traveler named Edward Augustus Kendall. In his letter, Kendall described a refreshing drink made with spirits, sugar, and mint leaves that was popular in the southern United States.

1803

Mint Julep Becomes a Southern Classic

During the early 19th century, the mint julep gained popularity and became firmly established as a beloved Southern drink. It was particularly favored by wealthy planters and social elites, who would indulge in the cool and invigorating beverage during the hot summer months.

1850

Mint Julep at the Kentucky Derby

The mint julep became forever associated with the Kentucky Derby in 1850 when the race was first held at the now-famous Churchill Downs. It was a tradition for the attendees to sip on mint juleps as they watched the horses thunder by. Since then, the mint julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby.

1938

Silver Julep Cups

In 1938, the Kentucky Derby took the mint julep tradition to another level by introducing silver julep cups. These cups are made of sterling silver and engraved with the Kentucky Derby logo. It is estimated that over 120,000 mint juleps are served in these special cups during the two-day event.

1993

Mint Julep Officially Recognized

Finally, in 1993, the mint julep was officially recognized by the U.S. Congress as the 'official drink of the Kentucky Derby.' This recognition further solidified the cultural significance of the mint julep and its deep-rooted connection to the Southern lifestyle and traditions.

Did you know?

Did you know that the mint julep is often referred to as the "official" drink of the Kentucky Derby? It's been the go-to cocktail for racegoers since the late 1930s!