Mint Juleps at post time… May • 2 • 2010

Makes ice as light as snow...

At Suzanne’s annual Kentucky Derby party, the guests toasted the winners of the 136th “Run for the Roses”–horse Super Saver, jockey Calvin Borel, and trainer Todd Pletcher–with refreshing, minty-bourbon juleps. The cocktail dates back to the late 1790s (!), but hasn’t waned in popularity–and, of course, it’s the Official Cocktail at Churchill Downs on the first Saturday of May… Suzanne’s  vintage ice shaver (purchased at Housing Works) helped create the slushee-like treats.

Classic Mint Julep

1 ounce simple syrup

mint sprig (5-6 leaves), plus two more for garnish

2 1/2 ounces Kentucky bourbon

Place simple syrup and mint sprig in the bottom of a highball glass; bruise mint lightly to release the oils, then remove the sprig. Add 1 1/2 ounces of the bourbon to glass; pack 3/4 full with crushed ice; stir carefully. Pack the glass full with more crushed ice; top the ice with the remaining 1 ounce of bourbon. Garnish with additional mint sprigs.