I’m a sucker for a themed drink! Anyone else?

With Packwood Grand coming to Calgary and Edmonton later this month (click for tickets), I decided to whip up one of their signature cocktails: the Mint Julep! A classic at horse racing events like the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep – despite its pretty name – packs a punch.

Aaron loves this bourbon-based cocktail, served with hand-crushed ice and a sprig of fresh mint. I don’t quiteeeeee have a taste for bourbon, though I can absolutely appreciate some pretty barware.

Here’s the full recipe:

Classic Mint Julep

Makes 1 drink

You’ll Need:

• 2 ounces bourbon
• 1/4 ounce simple syrup
• Mint, for muddling
• Bountiful sprig of mint, for garnish
• Dash of Angostura bitters (optional)
• Hand-crushed ice
• Metal cup

Directions:

In a metal julep tin, lightly muddle mint leaves in the simple syrup. Add the bourbon, then pack the glass tightly with hand-crushed ice. Churn gently with a long-handled spoon to frost the glass, then top with more crushed ice to form a tightly packed dome. Top with a dash of Angostura bitters, garnish with a mint bouquet and serve.

Tip: avoid handling the glass with your bare hands, as the heat from your hands will kill the frost, and serve with a napkin.

Shop Mint Julep Cups

Another important part of the Mint Julep is its traditional metal cup, which turns nice and frosty from the bountiful ice. Here’s the exact cup I bought, as well as some other pretty options.

Happy sipping and hope to see you at the races! If you’re still looking to get tickets to Packwood Grand, click here for my exclusive event invitation. It’s happening August 7 in Calgary at Century Downs Racetrack and August 28 in Edmonton at Century Mile Racetrack.

Xo Holly Hunka

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