The Kentucky Derby is a renowned event known for its horses, hats, and Mint Juleps. Executive chef David Danielson of Churchill Downs shared the recipe for the beloved cocktail that is served to the 400,000 attendees on race day. The Derby is a day-long event, with an estimated 127,000 mint juleps being served from the early morning to late at night. Churchill Downs goes through large quantities of bourbon, mint, and ice to keep up with the demand for the cocktail.
Chef David Danielson provided the recipe for the Churchill Downs Mint Julep. The recipe calls for 2 ounces of Woodford Reserve bourbon and simple syrup poured over crushed ice, stirred with a spoon, and garnished with a fresh sprig of mint. While the classic mint julep includes bourbon, water, mint, sugar, and ice, Danielson emphasizes the use of specific ingredients and a certain serving style. For each drink, bartenders pour two ounces of Woodford Reserve bourbon and mint simple syrup made by steeping mint in a mixture of sugar and water.
Historically, mint juleps were seen as a sign of prosperity, with the cocktail being a luxurious drink that showcased the availability of ice, a precious commodity in the past. Chef Danielson explained that the use of crushed ice in mint juleps was a symbol of wealth and social status. The recipe for the Churchill Downs Mint Julep provides the opportunity to enjoy a classic version of the cocktail that has been a part of the Derby tradition for many years. The combination of bourbon, mint simple syrup, and crushed ice creates a refreshing and flavorful drink that is perfect for sipping on race day.
Churchill Downs serves an impressive quantity of mint juleps on Derby day, with hundreds of thousands of ounces of bourbon, crates of mint, and pounds of ice being used to keep up with the demand. Chef David Danielson’s attention to detail in creating the perfect mint julep ensures that each drink served at Churchill Downs is of the highest quality. By combining the right ingredients in the correct proportions and serving them over crushed ice with a garnish of fresh mint, the Mint Juleps at the Kentucky Derby are a cherished part of the event.
For those looking to make their own mint juleps at home, the Churchill Downs Mint Julep recipe offers a simple and delicious way to enjoy the classic cocktail. By following the instructions provided by Chef David Danielson, anyone can recreate the authentic taste of the iconic drink. The recipe’s use of Woodford Reserve bourbon, mint simple syrup, and a generous garnish of fresh mint creates a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to impress. Whether enjoying the Derby from home or hosting a viewing party, the Churchill Downs Mint Julep recipe is a great way to commemorate the event.
The Kentucky Derby brings together horse racing enthusiasts, fashion aficionados, and cocktail lovers for a day of excitement and celebration. The Mint Julep has become synonymous with the Derby, with Churchill Downs serving up thousands of the refreshing cocktails to attendees each year. With a rich history and a unique flavor profile, the mint julep is a fitting drink for a day at the races. Chef David Danielson’s recipe for the Churchill Downs Mint Julep ensures that the tradition of enjoying this classic cocktail continues for years to come, allowing everyone to experience a taste of Derby day wherever they may be.
