What kind of mint makes the best julep?

Question

I know the recipe - sugar, water, bourbon (preferably Early Times) and fresh mint leaves and sprigs. I DON'T know what KIND of mint.

Peppermint? Spearmint? Something else?

Can someone from Kentucky enlighten this Texan?

Answer 1

you will want fresh mint leaves sold in the produce section of most markets. It is all just sold as mint. The fresh mint will be good for both mint juleps and mojitos.

Answer 2

peppermint and spearmint are subspecies, i would say "traditional" mint which is sold as straight: Mint in the grocery stores, and seeds/plants for your garden is the best for both julep and monitors.

Answer 3

Couple things for you here.

I prefer spearmint personally, but the best way to find out is but different types of mint and find the one you like best.

Now Early Times is the official whiskey of the Kentuckey Derby, however it is not bourbon.  US law requires bourbon not to to artifically colored or flavored, which Early Times is.  It does make a good Julep, as does Maker's mark, k**b Creek, and Woodford Reserve.

Good Luck

Answer 4

A friend made me one with a special type of mint that smelled a little like chocolate too and it was wonderful!