Observed on May 30th every year, National Mint Julep Day is a holiday on which people can enjoy one of the arguably most refreshing alcoholic beverages of all time. This beverage is considered to be a Southern classic and it’s even the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. This mixed alcoholic drink is made with bourbon, sugar, crushed or shaved ice, water, and of course, fresh mint. It’s a drink that’s been enjoyed for over 191 years and one that’s sure to remain a popular drink well into the foreseeable future.

The History Of The Mint Julep

Alas, the history of National Mint Julep Day continues to elude us as we were unable to locate the creator of this holiday, or even when it was created. However, during our research, we did find out who and when the Mint Julep was invented, so let’s take a look at that instead.
The Mint Julep, as it’s currently known today, was first invented by Jasper Crouch from Richmond, Virginia. Although various drinks before had used the term “julep” to describe a drink, most of these used either rum or gin. Other julep drinks before this one contained bourbon, but not in the exact formula or with the addition of mint as Jasper Crouch’s recipe used.

Making A Mint Julep

If you want our recipe for making a Mint Julep, then allow us to give it to you. The following recipe creates the perfect Classic Mint Julep. This classic drink is one of the easiest drinks to make but is also one of the most satisfying ones to enjoy.

Ingredients:

• Four mint sprigs (only the leaves, please)
• One and a half ounces of simple syrup or 2 sugar cubes
• Two and a half ounces of bourbon whiskey
• A mint sprig for garnish
• Crushed ice

Putting It All Together:

Step One
Place the sugar or simple syrup into a Julep cup with the mint leaves. If you don’t have a Julep cup, you can use a double old-fashioned glass or a Collins glass instead.

Step Two
Using a muddler, muddle the ingredients. This will release the aroma from the mint and dissolve the sugar—mingling all of the flavors together.

Step Three
Add the bourbon to the drink, but don’t stir it in. Stirring happens in the next step.

Step Four
Place crushed ice into the bourbon and stir well. The glass should become frosty during this process.

Step Five
Now garnish the glass with the mint sprig and add a straw. Congratulations, you just made a Mint Julep.

Observing National Mint Julep Day

Anyone looking to celebrate this day only needs to make themselves a Mint Julep with friends and family. There are a lot of different recipes out there, but we prefer the classic recipe listed above. And while you’re observing this holiday, be sure to use the hashtag #NationalMintJulepDay on your social media accounts with a picture of the drink you poured.