June 19-Mint Julep

It is Juneteenth and I am celebrating it by giving you today one of the most famous cocktails by one of the most famous black bartenders, Jerry Thomas. Today we are talking about the mint julep. Not only was this made by Thomas, but here is lore behind this cocktail of black bartenders learning how to make the perfect Mint Julep. This is of course also the offcial drink of the Kentucky Derby and it is said that bif you say the phrase “I do declare” you must be holding a mint julep.

This is a super satisfying drink that combines the freshness of mint, with the warmth of bourbon and the funk of Jamaican Rum. This is a really simple one too. Muddle mint into simple syrup top with bourbon and crushed ice and finish with a float of Jamaican Rum.

Full judging here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wyAj4ktZR8BCrqvLkVRI_D0xvNDR7jTsaZJKs42Rz3M/edit?tab=t.0