The Story Behind The Sparkling Rose Julep
There are a lot of ways to make a Julep.
The Kentucky Derby favorite reportedly made its first written appearance in "Travels of Four Years and a Half in the United States," an 1803 page-turner dedicated to then-president Thomas Jefferson. The drink became associated with the races in 1938, when it was sold in commemorative glassware at Churchill Downs on Derby Day.
A classic Mint Julep has a simple formula — whiskey, sugar, mint, muddle — making it suitable for riffing with different spirits and mixers. This version pairs Four Roses bourbon with dark rum, two types of bitters, rose water, and liqueur. A bubbly Cava float makes it particularly festive.
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More Bourbon Recipes To Explore
The Ruby Sour Cocktail Recipe:
Part New York Sour, part Old 502 sour, and all delicious, this red wine cocktail features bourbon, bitters, and Kentucky's finest vino.
The Homemade Fresh Bourbon Cherry Coke Recipe:
This cocktail is perfect for Saturday or Sunday tailgating in the fall. And you just need 3 ingredients to get the party started.
Mint Julep:
Get our recipe for a great Mint Julep. Learn everything you need to know to make a perfect Mint Julep.
The Tropical Toddy Recipe:
From San Antonio's historic Esquire Tavern comes this versatile hot toddy recipe. Learn how to make a hot toddy with bourbon, brandy, or rum here.
The Amber Old Fashioned:
The Amber Old Fashioned features a split base of bourbon and rich aged rum that produce a compelling roundness. Check it out here!
The Revolver:
The Revolver is a riff on the Manhattan made with Bulleit bourbon, coffee liqueur, orange bitters, and flaming citrus oils. Check it out here.
