Derby Delicious

Walking into the Taste of Derby for my first time I wouldn't normally go for a mint flavored drink. And despite my unwillingness to try something minty, I considered the idea and watched as fellow race watchers discussed how fabulous it tasted and that its over a century old tradition with an added bonus of keeping the pewter cup that it's served in. So like anyone else I conformed and tried one... DELICIOUS. Such a truly refreshing southern delight that of course has a tradition for the way you held the Mint Julep cup; go figure.

While I took down my mint julep I noticed that some people had there julep in a gold-plated cup with a silver straw. Curious as to why their cup was more extravagant than mine, I investigated. Come to find out that Churchill Downs serves extra-premium custom-made mint juleps at a cost of $1000 each! Only to be made from Woodford Reserve bourbon, mint imported from Ireland, ice from the Bavarian Alps, and sugar from Australia. Yikes, but the proceeds are used to support charitable causes dedicated to retired race horses. Which if I could afford a gold cup with a silver straw I would gladly give for that cause. However, if you are considering throwing together a classy 'traditional' Derby party might I suggest sticking to the Early Times Mint Julep Recipe with no gold cup... and no huge price tag.

{images:kentuckyderby}