Derby Day Drinks: Set Up a Striking Bar with Minimal Effort

Hosting a Kentucky Derby party? Skip the stress and make a big impression with a pitcher of mint juleps. High impact without high effort.

Start with Mint Simple Syrup

Make this ahead of time and the rest comes together in minutes. Heat 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water until the sugar is fully dissolved. Turn off the heat, add 1 cup of packed fresh mint, and let it steep for one hour. Cool completely, then strain out the mint. Store in the fridge until you're ready to use it.

Classic Pitcher Mint Juleps

Add ½ cup of fresh mint to a pitcher and muddle gently. Pour in 1 cup of mint simple syrup and 2 cups of bourbon, stir, and refrigerate until chilled. To serve, pour over crushed ice, add a splash of sparkling water, and finish with a fresh sprig of mint.

Mint Julep Spritz

Want something a little lighter? Pour the bourbon mixture over crushed ice and top with prosecco and a splash of sparkling water. Garnish with mint and enjoy a bubbly twist on the classic.

The Mocktail

Skipping the spirits?  We've got you.  Stir mint simple syrup into lemonade, top with sparkling water, and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. Refreshing, festive, and completely alcohol-free.