mint julep

Mint Julep Cocktail

For someone who doesn’t ride horses or follow horse races, Derby Day is more significant to me than you might think.

Why, you ask?

  • My mom grew up in a small town in Kentucky, where horse riding was a popular hobby.
  • I grew up in Hot Springs, AR, the home of the Oaklawn Racing track.
  • I got married on Derby Day in Arkansas in 2012.

I’ve also done some volunteering activities with kids and horses, and I’m fascinated by these beautiful creatures!

mint julep

Additionally, there is such a great food, drink and hat culture around the Derby.

We all probably know about the popularity of mint juleps in Kentucky at the Derby, but have you ever made one? I hadn’t until last weekend when I got a hankerin’.

mint julep

And guess what? They’re super easy to make. Just grab some fresh mint and some bourbon, and you’re set. They’re herbal, nutty, sweet with a kick, and I think you’ll love them…whether you’re watching the Kentucky Derby this weekend or not.

Maybe you want to make some Derby Pie Bars to go along with them.

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