Sep 02 2026
RestaurantsRiver Oak ChophouseMint Julep Recipe

Mint Julep Recipe

Time10m
Serves1

Buffalo Trace Bourbon, blue agave syrup, fresh mint.

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Ingredients

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Simple Blue Agave Syrup

Method

Simple Blue Agave Syrup

  1. 1

    Combine and dissolve

    In a small saucepan combine 0.75 cups blue agave syrup and 0.25 cups water. Warm over low heat, stirring gently until fully combined and slightly thinner in viscosity (about 2–3 minutes). Do not boil. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

  2. 2

    Store

    Transfer cooled syrup to a clean container. Syrup keeps refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. Use 0.5 oz per cocktail as directed below.

Mint Julep

  1. 3

    Prepare glass and mint

    Place 6 whole mint leaves in the bottom of a julep cup or rocks glass. If you prefer a brighter mint aroma, gently clap a few additional leaves between your hands to release oils and set aside for garnish.

  2. 4

    Muddle

    Add 0.5 oz of the prepared blue agave syrup to the glass with the mint. Using a muddler, gently press and twist 6 mint leaves just enough to bruise them and release oil and aroma—avoid over-muddling to prevent bitterness.

  3. 5

    Add bourbon and ice

    Pour 3 oz Buffalo Trace Bourbon into the glass over the muddled mint and syrup. Fill the glass with crushed ice, packing it slightly to the top. Stir gently for about 10–15 seconds to chill and slightly dilute the drink.

  4. 6

    Top and garnish

    Top the glass with more crushed ice, forming a small mound above the rim. Insert a fresh mint sprig into the top of the ice and lightly slap the sprig once to release aroma. Optionally, sprinkle a few whole mint leaves on top for visual appeal.

  5. 7

    Serve

    Serve immediately with a short straw placed near the rim so the drinker can smell the mint while sipping. Enjoy responsibly.

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