Step‑by‑Step Guide to Crafting a Mint Julep for the Derby
Over the spring weekend of May, spectators at Churchill Downs consume more than 125,000 mint juleps as part of the Kentucky Derby festival. The beverage has been the race’s official drink for nearly a century.
The tradition began in 1902 when Colonel Matt J. Winn, then vice‑president of the racetrack, introduced the mint julep glasses and popularized the drink. Winn, who had grown up watching the Derby from his father’s grocery wagon, helped revive the track during financial difficulties.
Winn is also credited with creating other Derby customs, such as the garlands of flowers that winners receive. His influence cemented the mint julep’s role as a hallmark of the event.
The 152nd Derby will air live on NBC and Peacock on Saturday, May 2, and viewers can learn how to make the official bourbon‑based drink during the broadcast.