Mint Julep Cocktail Recipe

The Mint Julep is a classic cocktail and though usually crafted with Bourbon whiskey, it is not unusual to find the drink made with rum at the Houmas House Plantation. John Burnside (who purchased the plantation in 1857) grew massive amounts of sugarcane and he liked to make his Mint Juleps with rum, which was widely available in Louisiana. So whether you like your cocktail with bourbon or rum, try this classic drink recipe.

Mint Julep Ingredients

• 8 mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon simple syrup, (equal amounts water and sugar, heated until sugar melts), cooled 
• Crushed ice 
• 2 ounces bourbon (or do the Houmas House twist and use rum) 
• Slash Club Soda 
• Sprig of mint for garnish 

Method of Preparation:

Put the mint leaves and the syrup in the bottom of a tall glass.
With the handle of a wooden spoon, crush and mash the leaves to extract the flavor. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
Pour in the bourbon and top off the glass with club soda. With a long-handled spoon, stir to chill and mix.
Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Learn more about Houmas House Plantation and Gardens.