A Unique Mint Julep with Gin: The Perfect Kentucky Derby Cocktail

It's Derby Day, and a traditional Kentucky Derby Mint Julep is the best way to celebrate. But what if you prefer something lighter and more botanical? We've got you covered. This is our unique mint julep with gin, a fresh and vibrant take on the classic that's surprisingly easy to make. This recipe uses our El Guapo™ Mojito Mixer to simplify the process without compromising on flavor, making it a perfect party trick.

Mint Julep with Gin Recipe

This cocktail offers a delightful departure from the standard bourbon-heavy julep. The botanical notes of gin beautifully complement the fresh mint and lime, creating a crisp and refreshing drink that's perfect for a sunny day.

Ingredients

📸: @the.sauceress

• 2 oz Kentucky Bourbon
• 1.5 oz El Guapo™ Mojito Mixer
• Lime Wedges
• Fresh Mint Sprigs
• Crushed Ice

Instructions

1. In a clean, empty shaker, add a few fresh mint sprigs with a gentle squeeze of lime from a wedge.
2. Gently muddle the mint and lime. Don't over-muddle; you just want to release the oils and juice.
3. Add the bourbon and El Guapo™ Mojito Mixer to the shaker.
4. Fill the shaker with ice and shake until well chilled.
5. Pour the mixture into a julep cup.
6. Top with fresh crushed ice.
7. Garnish with a few fresh mint sprigs and lime wedges before serving.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is a traditional Kentucky Derby Mint Julep?

The official Kentucky Derby Mint Julep is a cocktail made with bourbon, simple syrup, fresh mint, and crushed ice. It has been the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1939. Our version is a modern twist that uses our mojito mixer for convenience.

Why use gin instead of bourbon?

A mint julep with gin is an excellent alternative to the classic bourbon version. Gin provides a lighter, more botanical flavor that complements the fresh mint and lime, resulting in a less heavy and more refreshing cocktail. The botanical notes of gin also add a new layer of complexity to the drink.

What is the purpose of the El Guapo™ Mojito Mixer?

Our El Guapo™ Mojito Mixer contains a pre-made blend of fresh lime juice and cane sugar. It saves you the time of juicing limes and making simple syrup from scratch, ensuring a perfectly balanced and consistent flavor every time.

How do you make crushed ice for a mint julep?

You can make crushed ice by wrapping ice cubes in a clean kitchen towel and crushing them with a mallet or muddler. You can also use a blender or a dedicated ice crusher. Crushed ice is essential for a julep as it chills the drink quickly and provides the perfect texture.