Considering the Mint Julep is the official drink of The Kentucky Derby you would think that the first Saturday in May would be considered National Mint Julep Day but it’s not!
Impress your co-workers with the knowledge that tomorrow (May 30th) is National Mint Julep Day. Gather your Fresh Mint, Sugar, & Kentucky Bourbon, and prepare yourself a refreshing cocktail.
Folklore tells us Mint is a sign of hospitality. Mint Julep’s date back to at least the early 19th century. This Mint Julep was made likely made with rye whiskey or rum rather than the currently traditional bourbon.
The Mint Julep first became the signature drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938 when they were served in tall glasses that turned out to be popular take-home souvenirs pinched by derby goers. Churchill began charging an extra 25 cents to those who wished to keep the glasses. That’s how the Kentucky Derby glass was born!
Since 2006, Churchill Downs has premium Mint Julep’s served in gold-plated cups with silver straws for $1000 each. During Derby weekend, the track goes through more than 10,000 bottles of Early Times Mint Julep Ready-to-Serve Cocktail, 1,000 pounds of freshly harvested mint and 60,000 pounds of ice.
But, if you don’t have Mint nearby, we still think good ole’ Kentucky Bourbon is a great substitute. Cheers!
