On May 5th, they'll be running for the roses at the Kentucky Derby. Called the "most exciting two minutes in sports," the Derby is a good reason to celebrate and a great theme for drink and food specials.
According to the Kentucky Derby's official website, close to 120,000 mint juleps will be served during the race weekend. Even if you can't be at Churchill Downs to see the race, you can enjoy a taste of the Derby with our recipe for the Perfect Mint Julep.
Perfect Mint Julep
In a metal mint julep cup,
- Muddle in three sprigs of mint
- Add ice
- Add 1 oz of bourbon (for the best taste, use a finer-quality bourbon)
- Add 2 oz simple syrup
- Sprinkle powdered sugar on top
- Add a whole mint leaf for garnish
To make simple syrup:In a saucepan,
- Add one cup of sugar to one cup of water
- Bring to a boil
- Boil until sugar has dissolved
- Remove from heat and allow syrup to cool
Mint julep cups were originally made from silver or pewter and featured straight sides with decorative molding at the top and base of the cup. They're now available in a variety of food-safe metals and price ranges.
If mint juleps aren't your style, you can still raise a glass this weekend with a Kentucky Bourbon.
Bourbon is a specific type of whiskey - one that's made from at least 51% corn, distilled at 80 to 160 proof, and usually aged for 4 years in new charred oak barrels. Bourbon is only made in the United States and to be labeled "Kentucky Bourbon" it has to be made in that state.
Most bourbon is made of corn, rye and barley malt, while some bourbon is made from wheat instead of rye. Each distillery uses a different proportion of each grain, which helps give their bourbon its unique profile.
There are a number of Kentucky Bourbons that you might want to try. Here are a few we suggest:
Eagle Rare - This Bourbon is aged for at least 10 years and is distilled in Franklin, Kentucky. Eagle Rare has won national and international awards.
Four Roses - This Bourbon has been around since 1888. After a 40-year stint of being sold exclusively overseas, Four Roses is again available in most states.
Woodford Reserve - the "Official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby" is distilled in Versailles, Kentucky. In addition to their regular bourbons, they sell limited edition bottles commemorating the Kentucky Derby.
Whether you're celebrating Cinco De Mayo, watching the Kentucky Derby, or working this weekend, remember to be responsible when you're serving or enjoying alcohol.
For more information about making drinks, check out our Bartender Mixology course. If you'd like to learn more about bourbon and other liquors, we also have a Liquor Knowledge course.
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