While a lot of the history of the Mint Julep is unknown, we know for sure its origins lie in the Middle East. The Arabic word ‘julab’ means rosewater, and was a sort of elixir that people drank to enhance their spirit. This concept made its way over to Europe where it became the ‘julep.’ There, it was used heavily in medicine, and included sugar mixed with herbs, spices, and spirit. 

The julep found itself in America in the late 18th century. Its name was firs mentioned in print in 1803 when a newspaper described it as “a dram of spirituous liquor that has mint in it, taken by Virginians in the morning.” That is when the julep was introduced to the horse-racing world. People working in the industry and farmers alike would wake up sore from the day before and enjoy a Mint Julep in the morning to cure their aches and pains. Kentucky senator, Henry Clay, introduced the cocktail to Washington D.C. at the Round Robin Bar in 1850, where it is said they still use his recipe there today.

The Mint Julep became the official drink of the Kentucky Derby in 1938, though the cocktail had been engrained in derby culture prior to this point. Visitors from near and far enjoyed the drink so much, they would steal the glasses from the racetrack. Now that the Mint Julep was a ceremonious part of the Kentucky Derby, bartenders thought it should be served as such. Silver cups called ‘julep cups’ were crafted by Kentucky silversmiths in the early 19th century, with the most famous and luxurious design being “The Presidential Cup” designed by American Jeweler, Mark Scearce. It is said to be the only proper way to consume a Mint Julep because the metal vessel chills the drink perfectly. Nowadays, at the Winner’s Party, the governor of Kentucky toasts to the winner of the Derby with a sterling silver julep cup.

However you decide to drink it, a Mint Julep is sure to be all the air conditioning you need on any hot summer day in the south.