The mint julep is the traditional drink of the horseracing derby culture, and it’s easy to see why…what’s better than a sporting event paired with a traditional Southern cocktail? Of course, the juleps don’t stop when the race is over. The mint julep is a warm weather favorite for all kinds of entertaining—or even for just sitting on the porch for a spell.
This year, though, I’m getting inventive with my approach to the mint julep. My new version features Marrakesh Mint Tea and a kick of ginger thanks to our exquisite Ginger Sugar. I stumbled onto this new arrangement and was blown away by the result. The mint remains fresh and cool, while the ginger gives the drink a spicy, earthy punch that feels like nothing short of an adventure. Give it a spin—or check out one of the other variations below. Better yet, try them all! Giddyap!
Sparkling Ginger Marrakesh Mint Julep
From The Spice & Tea Exchange®
1 oz. Marrakesh Mint Tea
3 oz. Ginger Sugar
From the Grocer:
1 bottle (750 ml.) Kentucky bourbon
¾ cup filtered water
6-8 mint leaves per glass + 1 mint sprig per glass for garnish
Splash of sparkling water per glass
Preparation:
POUR bourbon into a large mixing bowl, add Marrakesh Mint Tea. Let sit 1 hour, allowing tea to infuse into bourbon.
COMBINE Ginger Sugar and ¾ cup filtered water in a small saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring often until sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and allow newly made simple syrup to cool to room temperature. Transfer to a sealable container and set aside.
STRAIN infused bourbon through a fine mesh strainer, discarding tea leaves, and pour bourbon back into bottle.
To assemble:
FILL each glass with crushed ice and 6-8 mint leaves.
ADD 1-2 Tbs. ginger simple syrup, 2 oz. infused bourbon, and a splash of sparkling water.
STIR and add mint sprig for garnish.
SERVE.
Yield: 10-12 servings
Total Time: 65 minutes
Prep: 60 minutes
Cook: 5 minutes
Variations:
Try your julep with Mint-Chilla Chai-Nilla Tea. This chai tea features creamy vanilla, bright peppermint and a touch of cinnamon. Rich, smooth, refreshing. Or try swapping the Ginger Sugar for Peppermint Patty Sugar to add rich chocolate and crisp peppermint to the cocktail. Blue ribbon!
