By Trudy Thomas, Director of Beverage, Camelback Inn Resort and Spa

Widely associated with the Kentucky Derby, the Mint Julep is an old cocktail with only four ingredients: bourbon, water, mint and sugar, and is traditionally served in a pewter or silver cup over crushed ice.  The first printed reference to the julep was in 1803 when it was described as “a spirituous liquor that has mint in it” but most cocktail historians believe it dates back to the early 1700’s.

The Spring Fever which is an interpretation of the original julep incorporating strawberries with fresh spearmint.  The addition of Navan Vanilla Cognac adds a soft accent to the Maker’s Mark bourbon base and the final cocktail is finished off with a touch of club soda.  No mint julep would be complete without the finishing garnish of a long mint sprig trimmed to the match the size of the straw so the fresh aromas of mint tickle the senses before the first sip of the drink.

Ingredients:

2 Strawberries (1 muddled – 1 sliced)

5 – 7 mint leaves depending on size

1 oz simple syrup

½ oz Navan Vanilla Cognac

1 ½ oz Maker’s Mark Bourbon

1 long mint sprig top for garnish

In a mixing glass muddle one strawberry with the mint leaves and simple syrup.  Add the cognac and bourbon then ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a metal julep cup or a tall Collins, which is filled with ice and strawberry slices.  Top with club soda and gently stir to combine.  Garnish with a mint sprig trimmed to the height of the straw.