This multi-part series on the Mint Julep is presented in honor of the upcoming 150th Running of the Kentucky Derby. Long time friend and supporter, Corey White, generously authored this series and we are thankful for his support.
This series started with a piece on History of the Mint Julep and Review, but now we have two more trials on different bourbons as the base for this classic cocktail!
(Reminder: I’m experimenting with what I have on hand, and I’m just one person. Your mileage may vary!)
Trial #3, Russell’s Reserve 10-Year Bourbon (90 proof)
Aim: test out a low-rye mash bill (75% corn / 13% rye / 12% malted barley, versus the 68/28/4 of the Bulleit in Trial #1).
Trial #3 thoughts: this worked well. Mint was the star of the show. There’s a mineral note that I haven’t enjoyed in this bottle and I was hoping it would be covered up by the other ingredients. That mineral note unfortunately peeked through BUT the mint did work nicely to offset it. Great use of this bottle in my opinion. 7/10
Trial #4, Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon (90 proof)
Aim: test use of a wheated bourbon (where corn is the dominant grain and wheat is the secondary grain, instead of rye).
Trial #4 thoughts: I suspected this would be overly sweet, since wheated bourbons tend to be associated with sweeter flavors. To my surprise, the ingredients in this julep harmonized in a way that made me wish I had added more sweetener. Overall this was a bit flat for my preference, but if someone wants a julep without tasting the bourbon then this may be a good choice. 5/10
Where We Stand So Far:
- Bulleit 10-Year
- Russell’s Reserve 10-Year
- (Tie) Ben Holladay Rickhouse Proof, Larceny
Next up: I’d still like to try at least one more bourbon, and one with rye. Stay tuned!
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