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Got Mint? Make Mint Juleps

There are a lot of good summer drinks—gin and tonics and margaritas come to mind—but there is no question that mint juleps are at the top of the list.

This recipe is based on our old family recipe as taught to me by my father many years ago.

I use a rather tall glass (14 oz) so if your glasses are smaller, adjust accordingly. Also, if you are making these drinks for a number of guests, it can be a little time-consuming. I therefore frequently make them ahead and put them in the freezer, which alters the details a little. In this recipe I will comment on “immediate” and “freezer” details.

The McPherson Mint Julep

By Fillmore McPherson

Ingredients:

• water and sugar to make simple syrup

• fresh mint, spearmint is best, 10 to 14 leaves per drink

• 100-proof bourbon (Old Grand Dad, Wild Turkey, and Jim Beam are good), about three to four ounces per drink

• crushed ice

Equipment:

• 14-oz tall glasses

• large diameter straws

• a wooden muddler (ideal but optional)

• Saran Wrap if freezing for later

Directions

Step 1: Make simple syrup with equal parts sugar and water, about a 1 ½ tablespoon of water and 1 ½ tablespoons of sugar per drink. Heat the water slightly until the sugar is thoroughly dissolved. Put the syrup in the refrigerator. If the syrup is too hot, the mint will be discolored.

Step 2: Pick and wash the fresh mint and put the leaves in the bottom of the glass, about 10 good-sized leaves or more per glass.

Step 3: Add about 2 ½ tablespoons cooled simple syrup and muddle the leaves rather aggressively. I use a wooden muddler, but an iced-tea spoon will suffice.

Step 4: Add a straw (large diameter) and fill the glass with crushed ice.

Step 5: Add 100-proof bourbon. Note: 100-proof has a lower freezing point than standard 80 or 86 proof so that the drink doesn’t melt as quickly. Old Grand Dad, Wild Turkey, and Jim Beam are three brands that are usually available. For “immediate” use, fill the glass, about 4 ounces; for “freezer” add 3 ounces. Stir thoroughly so that the syrup, mint, and bourbon are mixed throughout the glass.

Step 6: (Skip this step if you are serving immediately). For “freezer” use, cover with Saran wrap (poke a hole for the straw) and put in the freezer. When ready to use, remove the Saran wrap and add another ounce of bourbon to start melting the solid mixture. Stir.

Step 7: Stick a spring of mint into the ice—the mint aroma will enhance the flavor.

Step 8: Sip and enjoy!