Saturday, May 5, 2012

A MINT JULEP OF COURSE!


MINT JULEP
4 fresh mint sprigs
2 ½ ounces bourbon whiskey
1 tsp. powdered sugar or simple syrup
2 tsp. water

There are all kinds of ways to make a MINT JULEP cocktail, just as there are all kinds of ways to celebrate the Kentucky Derby, the high-stakes race for three-year old Thoroughbreds that turns Louisville, Kentucky into one big party. You can spend anywhere from $5,000 to $50 for a ticket to the real deal at Churchill Downs or you could go to a local bar that’s hosting a Derby Party. Guess where I went?

Yep, I spent the sunny first Saturday in May not at Churchill Downs, but at Bistro 70 in Painesville, Ohio, where they make a killer MINT JULEP for $7, not $11 like the Derby infield. It was the classic MINT JULEP recipe that starts by muddling mint leaves, powdered sugar or simple syrup, and a little bit of water in a collins glass. A wooden muddler works best. You then fill the glass with shaved or crushed ice and add bourbon — the higher priced the better. Top the MINT JUELP with more ice and garnish with a mint sprig. To really be authentic, use a silver julep cup and drink it at Churchill Downs.


The MINT JULEP is a bit of an acquired taste, but once you acquire it, you’ll never lose your love for it. I found the cocktail surprisingly refreshing. It fancies bourbon up and makes it delicious. I really love the sweet and mint combo. If you haven’t tried one it a while, give it a try It’s good for more than just Derby Day too. A MINT JULEP also goes well with sultry afternoons, rocking chairs and front porches. It will make you want to say “I’ll Have Another.”




Happy Cinco De Mayo Too!
Drink Up^
Cocktail Connie

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