Photo by Stephanie Foley
For anyone born in the Bluegrass State, the mint julep has a special significance: It's traditionally served on Kentucky Derby Day, the first Saturday in May. But it makes a great cocktail for any warm-weather afternoon. We've added a splash of club soda to make the drink a little lighter and more refreshing.
Recipe information
Yield
Serves 8
Ingredients
3/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2/3 cup sugar
1 cup (packed) fresh mint leaves
1 cup bourbon
2 10-ounce bottles of chilled club soda
6 cups crushed ice
8 fresh mint sprigs
Preparation
Mix fresh lemon juice, sugar, and fresh mint leaves in small bowl until sugar dissolves; press on mint with back of spoon to crush lightly. Let stand 30 minutes. Strain mint and lemon mixture into pitcher. Mix in bourbon, then club soda and ice. Pour into 8 tall glasses. Garnish each drink with mint sprig.
