National Mint Julep Day: How to Make a Mint Julep with Vodka

Every year on May 30, cocktail lovers in the U.S. raise a glass to one of the most iconic drinks in American history – the Mint Julep. But, we say, some cocktails are so good they deserve to be celebrated everywhere.

Whether you’re someone who likes their cocktails made traditionally or someone who loves to shake things up, today is the perfect day to mix something special.

So, this year to mark National Julep Day, we’re doing things a little differently – we’re making a Mint Julep with vodka. But first…

What is a Mint Julep?

The Mint Julep is a classic Southern cocktail with deep roots in American culture. Traditionally made with bourbon, fresh mint, sugar, and crushed ice, it’s been a staple since the late 18th century.

It’s perhaps best known as the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, sipped from a silver cup while the horses thunder down the track. Aromatic and elegant, it’s a drink that has earned its legendary status.

The History of the Mint Julep

The Mint Julep has been around for centuries, with some of the earliest references to the drink dating back to the 1700s in the American South. It wasn’t long before its combination of fresh mint and spirits made it a social favorite.

By the 19th century the Mint Julep had become synonymous with Southern hospitality, and its association with the Kentucky Derby, which began serving it as the official drink in 1938, cemented its place in cocktail history forever.

Mixing things up

Here at Absolut, we have a lot of respect for the classics, but we also love to put our own spin on things.

For National Mint Julep Day this year, we’re replacing bourbon for Absolut Vodka.

The result is a lighter, cleaner take on the classic that lets the fresh mint and citrus do the talking.

How to Make a Mint Julep with Vodka

Before you get started, here’s what you’ll need: a cocktail shaker, a muddler, a Hawthorne strainer, and a rocks glass.

New to home bartending? Check out our post on essential cocktail tools.

Here’s how to make a Vodka Mint Julep:

1. Add 6-8 fresh mint leaves and 1 teaspoon of superfine sugar into a cocktail shaker.
2. Cut two quarters of fresh lemon and drop them into the shaker.
3. Muddle everything gently until the sugar dissolves, and the mint releases its aroma.
4. Use a jigger or any measuring tool you have to measure and add Absolut Vodka.
5. Fill the shaker with crushed ice and shake until the outside of the shaker feels ice cold.
6. Fill a rocks glass with crushed ice.
7. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
8. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and serve immediately.

Watch how to make a Mint Julep with Vodka:

Celebrate Your Way

Everyone’s palate is different, and that’s exactly what makes cocktail culture so exciting. Stick with the traditional bourbon, try our vodka twist, experiment with any Absolut flavored vodka, or put your own spin on it entirely.

There’s no right or wrong way to make a Mint Julep – only your way. But whatever you decide, do one thing: invite some friends over, raise a glass, and say cheers to National Mint Julep Day!

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Looking for more drink-spiration? Discover more drink recipes!