What are some variations you can try?

Kentucky Darby

If you’re not a bourbon fan, Wesley Yeung from Darby’s has created a twist on the mint julep called the Kentucky Darby, using scotch rather than bourbon and Italian spirit Amaro.

Ingredients:

35ml (2½ tablespoons) Monkey Shoulder Whisky

25ml (2 tablespoons) Amaro Montenegro

10 mint leaves (rub the leaves in your hand to release the flavour)

Crushed ice

5ml (1 teaspoon) Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Scotch Whisky

Mint sprig, to garnish

Method:

In a julep tankard, add the Monkey Shoulder, Amaro Montenegro, mint leaves and enough of the crushed ice to fill half way up. Stir well. Pack in the remaining crushed ice, pour over the Ardbeg and finish with a sprig of mint.

Strawberry mint julep

Add some fresh fruit to add extra sweetness with this recipe from Southern Living

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons simple syrup

5 strawberries, sliced

5-6 large mint leaves

⅓ cup bourbon

Method:

In a large glass, muddle together the syrup, strawberries and mint leaves. Add bourbon and stir to combine. Fill two glasses with crushed ice. Pour the mixture over the ice and garnish with a sliced strawberry on the rim of the cup.

Mint julep: everything you need to know about this classic American cocktail (and how to make the perfect one)