The Top 6 Julep Variations to Try Right Now

Nothing can go wrong with a classic Julep cocktail. It’s refreshing, tasty, and vibrant enough to keep you charged for the day! This Julep was first used as a medicinal concoction before it blossomed into a cocktail. Now, it’s known as the official drink of the Kentucky Derby horse races and has a deep connection to the sport. Enough of a history lesson from us, now let’s focus on making our present more fun with these top Julep variations.

The Top 6 Julep Variations to Try Right Now

1. 1792 Kentucky White Dog Julep
2. Blackberry Mint Julep Margarita
3. Whiskey Smash
4. Champagne Julep
5. Rhubarb Julep
6. Strawberry Julep

1. 1792 Kentucky White Dog Julep

We start our top six Julep variations list with the 1792 Kentucky White Dog. With the inclusion of rye whiskey instead of the usual bourbon, you’ll get those smoky flavors dancing in your mouth. It’s said that this concoction was created by David Wondrich, an award-winning author, as a way of respecting Kentucky’s 220th anniversary of freedom. So, if you’re looking to indulge in a bit of American history, this cocktail will have your back. 

Ingredients

• ½ ounce of water
• 6 leaves of mint
• 2 tsp of finely granulated sugar
• 2 ounces of unaged rye whiskey
• Mint sprigs for garnish

How To Make 1792 Kentucky White Dog Julep

1. In a highball glass, add the sugar and water. 
2. Stir the mixture till the sugar dissolves.
3. Put the mint leaves into the mixture and muddle gently.
4. Fill the glass with crushed ice, and top it with whiskey.
5. Stir the liquid once again, and add more ice if required. 
6. Finish your drink by garnishing it with some mint sprigs.

Also Read: Difference Between Tequila And Mezcal: Everything You Need To Know

2. Blackberry Mint Julep

For a fruity variant of the traditional Julep, you can try crafting the Blackberry Mint Julep. This time we use tequila in place of bourbon to enhance the sweet and earthy flavors of the tequila. Also, this version packs more bite with the honey syrup which is like the cherry on top. The recipe is pretty easy to make, so read on to know how you can prepare this fruity yet boozy drink.

Ingredients

• 6 leaves of mint
• 5 blackberries
• 1 ounce of honey syrup
• 1 ounce of fresh lime juice
• 2 ounces of añejo tequila
• Mint sprigs and some more blackberries for garnish.

How To Make Blackberry Mint Julep Margarita

1. Put the mint leaves, blackberries, and honey syrup in a cocktail shaker. 
2. Now, gently muddle the mixture.
3. Pour the tequila, lime juice, and ice into the mix. 
4. Shake well until chilled.
5. In a separate glass, fill the glass with ice and then strain the liquid into it.
6. Garnish with mint leaves and blackberries. 
7. Voila! you’re ready to serve!

Also Read: 7 Best Indian Cocktails To Welcome The Festive Spirit

3. Whiskey Smash Julep

The Whiskey Smash Julep can be considered the older cousin of the Classic Mint Julep. The only difference between these cousins is the involvement of fresh fruits. Unlike the usual Julep cocktail, Whiskey Smash Julep is made out of muddling fresh fruits. With the lemon wedges introduced into the recipe, this cocktail attains a fine balance. So, if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, definitely try this cocktail out.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces of bourbon
• 5 leaves of mint
• 0.5 ounces of simple syrup
• ½ lemon (cut into wedges)
• Mint sprigs for garnish

How To Make Whiskey Smash Julep

1. In a cocktail shaker, add the lemon, simple syrup, and mint. Muddle the ingredients gently.
2. Top the mixture with bourbon. Shake well until chilled.
3. Strain the liquid in a glass with crushed ice.
4. Finish the cocktail with a mint sprig garnish, and serve.

Also Read: 6 Indian Alcohol Brands Founded By Women

4. Champagne Julep

The Champagne Julep can be considered another relative of the Classic Julep. While all the traditional ingredients to make a Julep are used, the added champagne mellows the sweetness of the sugar, giving it a bit more zing. If you’re hosting a black-tie event or any other formal occasion, the Champagne Julep will provide a sort of elegance that’ll impress your guests. So, what are you waiting for? Try this concoction out, and start turning heads.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces of bourbon
• 1 tsp of superfine sugar
• 6 leaves of mint
• 4 ounces of champagne
• Mint sprigs for garnish

How To Make Champagne Julep

1. In a shaker, muddle the sugar and mint leaves.
2. Add crushed ice into the shaker; fill it three-quarters full. 
3. Top the mixture with bourbon and gently stir.
4. Put more crushed ice and pour the champagne into the mixture.
5. Use mint springs to garnish and serve.

Also Read: A Complete Guide On How To Serve And Drink Champagne

5. Rhubarb Julep

Rhubarb might be a tricky flavor to deal with but it goes really well with the ingredients of this Julep variation. The sweetness of sugar and the tarty flavors of the rhubarb creates a taste that is sure to linger like your favorite memories. Plus, the added bourbon just adds to the overall vibe of the drink. Here’s how you can make this perfectly flavorful cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces of bourbon
• 1 ounce of rhubarb syrup
• 3 leaves of mint
• A dash of water

How To Make Rhubarb Julep

1. In a cocktail glass, add the mint leaves and rhubarb syrup. 
2. Muddle the mixture gently.
3. Put the crushed ice into the mix. 
4. Top the mixture with bourbon and a dash of water.
5. Stir it and serve.

Also Read: A Beginner’s Guide to 8 Popular Wine Grapes

6. Strawberry Julep

This is another cocktail that goes well if you’re having a lazy summer day. The strawberries make this concoction a sweet haven and add a visually appealing pink to the appearance. For all those who have a sweet tooth, this variation will be a huge hit, and it’ll leave you more than satisfied.

Ingredients

• 3 diced strawberries
• ¾ ounces of simple syrup
• 2 ounces of bourbon
• 10 leaves of mint

How To Make Strawberry Julep

1. Muddle the strawberries, simple syrup, and mint in a cocktail shaker gently.
2. Put the ice into the mixture till the shaker is packed. 
3. Top it up with bourbon.
4. Stir the drink and serve.

Summing Up

Julep cocktails are fun and contains all the right ingredients to add some flavor to your parties. Just like everything else, there’s always a possibility to experiment and find something great and these variations might help you with it. These Julep variations are fun, easy, and extremely refreshing. They can fit into the menu of any occasion, so make them, and add another branch of cocktail varieties to your bartending prowess. Happy drinking!

FAQs

What Are The Top Julep Variations To Try Right Now?

Some of the top Julep variations to try right now are Champagne Julep, Strawberry Julep, Rhubarb Julep, and Blackberry Mint Julep.

Does Mint Julep Have Multiple Types Of Alcohol?

Mint Juleps can be infused with multiple types of alcohol such as tequila, whiskey, cognac, and even brandy. This cocktail doesn’t have to be restricted to solely bourbon.

What Does A Mint Julep Taste Like?

A Mint Julep has a sweet, cool, and minty taste that’s refreshing. If you’re looking for a cocktail to beat the summer heat, Mint Juleps are the best way to go.

What Does Adding A Drop Of Water To Bourbon Do?

Adding drops of water can reduce the intensity of the bourbon. The same thing happens when you have it on the rocks.

Is It Ok To Mix Bourbon With Coke?

It’s completely fine to mix bourbon with coke. In fact, it becomes a cocktail of its own! The vanilla flavors of both the liquids provide a sweet and balanced taste, making the concoction a harmonious symphony.

What Is The Most Popular Way To Drink Bourbon?

It’s better to enjoy the drink neat or straight. Once the liquid directly touches your palate, you’ll be experiencing the sweet aroma and vanilla flavor.