Mint Julep: The Classic Kentucky Derby Cocktail

Laura Kuhn
May 28
2 min read

The Classic Kentucky Derby Cocktail

Left Bank bourbon

simple syrup

crushed ice

fresh mint

Few cocktails wear a crown quite like the Mint Julep—a Southern icon known for its icy elegance, refreshing bite, and deep ties to the Kentucky Derby. It’s not just a drink; it’s a ritual. At Left Bank, we honor this classic with a refined version that showcases the richness of our signature Left Bank Bourbon and the simplicity of a time-honored tradition.

The Left Bank Mint Julep

Served in a frosty silver cup or a chilled rocks glass, the Mint Julep is a celebration of cool mint and bold bourbon. Our house recipe is steeped in flavor and Southern pride:

Left Bank Bourbon – The soul of the cocktail. Smooth, bold, and slightly sweet with notes of oak and vanilla, it's the perfect foundation for this refined refresher.
Simple Syrup – Just a touch of sweetness to balance the bite and highlight the bourbon's depth.
Crushed Ice – A mound of shaved ice turns the drink into an icy slow-sipper that stays cold even in the Deep South heat.
Fresh Mint – Muddled gently and generously garnished. It’s the star of the show, releasing a cool, herbaceous aroma with every sip.

Born in the South, Raised on Tradition

The Mint Julep dates back to the 18th century and found its forever home in Kentucky, where it’s been the official drink of the Derby since the 1930s. Sipped by statesmen and Southerners alike, it’s a cocktail that balances strength with sophistication.

At Left Bank, we don’t just serve it—we celebrate it. Whether it’s Derby Day or a sweltering summer evening, our Julep brings you straight to a shady porch somewhere with a rocking chair and time to kill.

How to Enjoy One?

With a wide-brimmed hat on Derby Day
On a warm night with blues playing softly in the background
Or anytime you want a cocktail that feels both fresh and legendary

Chill. Sip. Repeat. Cool off with a Mint Julep with Left Bank and see why this Southern classic has never gone out of style. It's tradition in a glass—with bourbon, mint, and unmistakable charm.