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How to make a mint julep for the 2026 Kentucky Derby and the story of ingredients with a long history at Churchill Downs.
www.goodmorningamerica.comHere’s the latest on mint julep recipes based on recent coverage.
- A recent feature highlights several modern takes for derby-season mint juleps, emphasizing freshness, precise tempering of sweetness, and mint oils over muddling for aroma. It also notes bourbon selection (often Woodford Reserve or Four Roses) and traditional serving in a julep cup with crushed ice.[1][3]
- Official Kentucky Derby guidance continues to present two-ingredient or two-plus additions (bourbon + simple syrup) with crushed ice and mint, while suggesting customization for sweetness and mint intensity per guest.[3][4]
- Several outlets published practical, at-home variants that keep the core 2 oz bourbon, mint, and crushed ice formula but add touches like honey or demerara syrup, mint bruise versus muddle, and garnishes such as mint sprigs or honeycomb in premium versions.[5][6][3]
- Historical/continuity pieces reiterate the tradition of mint julep as the Kentucky Derby’s iconic drink, with occasional notes on regional variations and the importance of using fresh mint and proper ice texture for the frosty cup experience.[7][8]
Illustration (example recipe)
- Classic approach: 2 oz bourbon, fresh mint, simple syrup (to taste), crushed ice; lightly bruise or express oils from mint, fill cup with crushed ice, pour bourbon and syrup, stir until frosty, garnish with mint sprig. This mirrors many current write-ups and the Derby’s official guidance.[6][1]
If you’d like, I can pull a single, tested recipe from one source and format it step-by-step for you, or compare two popular versions side-by-side. I can also tailor a mint julep recipe to your preferred sweetness and bourbon style. If you want, tell me your preferred bourbon type and sweetness level.[1][3][6]