Stay Cool this Summer with that Refreshing Southern Classic, Mint Julep

History On The Rocks is Goya’s summer cocktail series in partnership with Smitha Menon. Here, we explore the often-unknown origin story behind our favourite classic cocktails. We will also be bringing you a modern take on the classic, from some of our favourite bars in the country. This week, mint julep.

The bourbon-based mint julep is famous for being the the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. It’s a Southern classic made with just four ingredients: bourbon, sugar, water and mint. Interestingly, the word julep comes from the word, gulab (Persian for rose water) — a drink taken to mask the bitter taste of medicines. The drink acquired new from once it made its way across the globe to Europe and colonial America, and with the invention of ice.

This recipe comes from Nutcase Etc., a tiny cocktail bar in a 100-year old building. Behind the counter, Rahul Banerjee, co-founder and head bartender, shares his recipe for this classic.

RECIPE FOR NUTCASE ETC. MINT JULEP

Glassware: metal Julep glass or double rock glass

Ingredients
Handful of fresh mint leaves (10-12 leaves)
60 ml Bourbon whiskey 
10 ml sugar syrup 'semi-rich' (3:2 , sugar to water ratio) 
2 dashes of Angostura bitters

Method 

Place the glass on the bar station. Build the drink in the glass by adding sugar syrup, bitters and mint. 
Gently crush the mint, then pour bourbon. 
Now add crushed ice and churn briefly to chill it. 
Then top up with crushed ice to the brim
Finally, garnish with a bouquet of fresh mint and enjoy. 

History on the Rocks is a series in partnership with Smitha Menon. Join us as we explore the stories behind our favourite cocktails and how they traveled to us. Each history lesson is followed by a cocktail recipe from some of the country’s top bartenders.

ALSO ON GOYA