Mint Juleps + Me.

I’m a happy hour purist.

If I’m not drinking wine, my cocktails fall into 2 distinct categories: 1. Vodka 2. Tequila. Additionally, I’m not a sugary-mixer kind of girl and never, ever order cocktails with clever monikers.

In other words, under normal circumstances, it would not occur to me to drink a Mint Julep. However, a few weekends ago, I served on the host committee for a Kentucky Derby-themed event and had my people over for cocktails beforehand, so I figured I’d better learn how to make one!

Apparently, I drink bourbon now.

Here’s the Q+DD on how to make a Mint Julep:
(special thanks to my darling Jeff for teaching me.)

Ok, so you need either a mortar and pestle or a muddler. I opted for the muddler.

You also need bourbon (I went with Makers Mark), fresh mint leaves and sugar. I also threw some club soda in there so that we didn’t get too toasty before the event.

You also need to make a simple syrup. Just add equal parts sugar + water (so like, 2 cups water 2 cups sugar), bring to a boil, and let cool. Voila.

Then it’s easy-peasy.

You just put some mint leaves and simple syrup in the bottom of your glass. (you’re supposed to use a Julep cup, which is sterling silver, or an old-fashioned glass, but I didn’t have any of those. Whatever.)

“Muddle” leaves and syrup together. As far as I can tell, “Muddle” is synonymous with “Mash.” So, mash it up until you release the scent of the mint. It takes a little elbow-grease, but if I can do it in a party dress, you can do it too. Witness:

Add the bourbon and stir. (I’m not one for measuring. Jeff said something about “parts” or an “8-count pour” but I went with the “dump” method. It worked fine.) Fill the glass with crushed ice and stir until a frost develops on the outside of the glass. (Or until you are extra-thirsty.) I topped it off with a splash of club soda, but this step is optional.

Garnish with a few mint leaves to make it fancy (I used whole sprigs, as I am prone to gross excess.) and serve immediately.

There you have it. Now you can go and have a “spell” out on your “porch.” I also thought it was particularly hilarious to make Olive wear pearls and everyone refer to my 644-square-foot condo as “the plantation” for the evening.

Olive + Jamie

Y’all come back now, y’hear?

xx, L