At 6:24 pm ET, all eyes will be on Churchill Downs as the Kentucky Derby kicks off the Triple Crown of thoroughbred racing.  The crowd is sure to be well dressed, women in fantastic dresses and over the top hats, and men in their favorite seersucker suits (hopefully with a pocket square).  We always say that the right accessories are what really completes a look, and one “accessory” that will be seen more than any other at the Derby is a traditional mint julep.  Since Woodford Reserve is the Official Bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, we thought it was only right that we share their mint julep recipe for those of you who will be watching the race away from the track.

For one serving, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 level teaspoon of powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons of water
• 3-5 fresh mint leaves
• 2 – 2 1/2 oz. Woodford Reserve (keep the bottle handy, you may need an extra splash)
• Crushed ice

Once your ingredients are ready to go, the process for making a mint julep is quite simple.  First, place your powdered sugar and mint into the bottom of your cup.  Add the water, or a splash of Woodford Reserve, to wet the first ingredients and muddle them together with a wooden muddler (if you don’t have a muddler, just stir it up a bit).  Then, add your bourbon, and top the cup off with crushed ice.  From there, all that is left is a mint leaf for garnish and a sipping straw.  With those final pieces are in place,  you will be all set.

Note:  Traditionally, mint juleps are served in silver cups.  If you have them, awesome.  If not, no worries, a well made mint julep is going to taste great no matter what you serve it in.