Spiced Harvest Mint Julep
Like many of you, I’ve wanted to hit the fast forward button on 2020. Astrologers, psychics, heck, even the Farmers’ Almanac did see this one coming. The pandemic has literally turned the world upside down, multiple times, in fact. Instead of wishing away the remainder of 2020, I’m looking forward to what the fall season has in store. There’s nothing better than pulling your favorite sweater out of the back of your closet, curling up near a fire and sipping on your favorite autumnal cocktail. I find the flavor of fall so comforting and familiar. One event that I am most looking forward to this fall season is the 146th running of The Kentucky Derby. Yes, COVID-19 rescheduled that event, too.
The Kentucky Derby is by far one of my favorite events of the year. Take it from a girl who has seen the best two minutes in sports, it’s an event not to be missed. Even though the seats beneath the twin spires won’t be filled with outrageous hats, pastels and plaids, it doesn’t mean that you can’t celebrate from the comfort of your own home. Don your favorite derby outfit, open up a bottle of Maker’s Mark, and place your bets! No derby celebration would be complete without a Mint Julep, which is THE official cocktail of The Kentucky Derby. Seeing how this time-honored tradition is now taking place in the fall, I thought it might be fun to create a riff of this classic cocktail and embrace the season. The Spiced Harvest Mint Julep is filled with spice and subtle notes of fall, a proper way to celebrate The Kentucky Derby.
Ingredients:
2 ounces of Maker’s Mark Bourbon
4-6 Mint Leaves
3 Tablespoons of Spiced Harvest Syrup ( see recipe below)
Crushed Ice
Garnish- Mint Spring and if you’re feeling festive and orange peel
Spiced Harvest Syrup
1.5 Cups of Orange Juice (Pulp-Free or Reduced Pulp)
5 Cinnamon Sticks
7 Whole Cloves
1/4 cup Maple Syrup
1/4 Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
2 Clove Studded Orange Slices
1 Tablespoon Demerara Sugar
Instructions
In a medium saucepan over high heat, combine all the ingredients and whisk well to incorporate
Cook the syrup for 10-12 minutes whisking vigorously to prevent the ingredients from sticking and burning. The syrup will reduce by half
Once reduced, remove the syrup from heat and let stand for 30 minutes until cool
Remove cinnamon sticks, clove-studded orange slices, and whole cloves
Steps:
In the Julep cup, lightly muddle the mint leaves
Add the Spiced Harvest Syrup and Maker’s Mark and pack the Julep cup tightly with crushed ice
Stir carefully until the Julep cup is frosted
Top the Julep cup with more crushed ice until a small dome is formed. Garnish with a fresh mint sprig and orange peel if you are in the fall spirit
Thanks to Maker’s Mark for partnering with me on this post.
Until Next Time!