Strolling into the month of May, we welcome warmer weather, we start planting flowers, and we celebrate one of our favorite events of the year: The Kentucky Derby. At what other event can you find lavish, large-brimmed hats, pastel tone jackets, and focus only on horse racing? While you sit back to watch the races, prepare yourself (and your friends) this Pomegranate Mint Julep. It elevates your usual derby drink with a rosemary simple syrup and fresh pomegranate juice. Talk about a tangy and satisfying way to cheer on your favorite horse (we’ll be rooting on Renegade!).

How Did the Mint Julep Become a Part of the Kentucky Derby?

The association between the mint julep and the Kentucky Derby really extends to southern traditions. The mix of bourbon, sugar, water, and fresh mint dates back to the 1800’s and its popularity rose mainly in the south. As bourbon became associated with the home state of the Kentucky Derby, the mint julep took the spotlight as both refreshing and elegant. The derby officially began serving the cocktail in signature souvenir glasses in 1937 and the rest is history. Now the Kentucky Derby serves around 125,000 mint juleps each year.

Pomegranate Mint Julep

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• Author: Justin Matase

Print Recipe

Description

Take your Mint Julep to the next level…

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 oz bourbon
• 2 oz pomegranate juice
• 1 oz rosemary simple syrup
• 1–2 cups finely crushed ice

For the rosemary simple syrup:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 4 sprigs of rosemary

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Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker, stir and pour over ice.
2. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.

For the rosemary simple syrup:

1. Bring to a boil, and let cool.

Recipe by Justin Matase
Photography by Dave Bryce

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