Blackberry Mint Julep Recipe

As a cocktail, the Julep blossomed in the American South in the late 1700s. It first got its start as a medicinal concoction used to settle the stomach.  Because not everyone had access to ice nor the silver or pewter cup in which the drink is served, it was always associated with the upper class.

Recognized as the unofficial drink of the South, the mint julep became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938. Nearly 120,000 mint juleps have been sold at the race every year since.  As the lore and love the mint julep has since morphed into the basis for a myriad of incredible cocktails utilizing various fruits and spirits.

Recipe

Blackberry Mint Julep

2 oz. Bourbon
0.5 oz. simple syrup
8 (or way more) mint leaves
2-3 blackberries

• Muddle the mint leaves, blackberries, and simple syrup in the bottom of a rocks glass or julep cup.
• Muddle briefly and gently to avoid bitterness.
• Add crushed ice and bourbon to the glass, and stir until frosty.
• Top with more crushed ice.
• Garnish with blackberries and a mint sprigs.

Photo courtesy of Kara Kara