Kentucky Derby and a Mint Julep

On the Menu Today~

The Kentucky Derby and a
Mint Julep~

Churchill Downs~

Find out more about The Kentucky Derby......
Kentucky Derby History and Facts:

With 138 editions of The Kentucky Derby,
the Run for the Roses ranks as the oldest continuously run sporting event in America,
since it first began in 1875~

With over a century worth of history,
the Derby remains a timeless hallmark of Spring and
is regarded as a great American Tradition.
Many customs have become synonymous with the first Saturday in May~

Dubbed "the Run for the Roses"
the famous garland of Roses draped over the Victor,
is a tradition held steady for nearly a century and
the Rose officially became the flower of the Kentucky Derby in 1904~

In the box seats of Churchill Downs,
some of the most popular celebrities, dignitaries and athletes will enjoy their Kentucky Derby experience on the legendary "Millionaires Row"~

The only things bigger than the race itself are the Hats~
Men and Women alike will wear their finest head-wear to celebrate Kentucky Derby Day~

Since 1938,
the Mint Julep has been the official drink of the Kentucky Derby.
The ingredients have stayed the same~
Mint, sugar, spring water, crushed ice and
Kentucky Whiskey~

While the Derby is full of history and traditions
there are none that rival the powerful moment when the band begins to play
"My Old Kentucky Home" as the horses step onto the track~

*I found my information about The Kentucky Derby at:
Bleacher Report
Kentucky Derby 2013: Ranking the Best Traditions.

Mint Julep

Ingredients

• 3 ounces Kentucky Whiskey such as Early Times
• 4 to 6 springs mint leaves
• sugar cube
• spring water, optional

Cooking Directions

1. Put mint, sugar and a small amount of bourbon or spring water into the bottom of a mixing glass. Gently muddle the mint and sugar. Let stand for a bit to allow mint leaves to release their flavor. Strain and pour into a julep cup, rotating to coat the sides. Fill with crushed ice, then add the rest of the whiskey.
2. Garnish with a slapped small mint sprig.

Mint, Drinks
*Mint Juleps are traditionally served in a metal julep cup.