Get your big hats ready it's Kentucky Derby time! Enjoy this timeless tradition with a non-alcoholic mint julep cocktail or some new favorites. Below are a few tasty non-alcoholic bourbon recipes to explore, from classics to new takes on bourbon. Cheers to Derby fun without the hangover!
Classic Mint Julep
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Spiritless Kentucky 74
- ½ oz. Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar to water)
- Garnish: 4-6 fresh mint leaves
Method:
Measure and combine simple syrup and mint into cup and muddle. Add Kentucky 74. Fill with crushed ice and stir.
The Maple Bourbon Old Fashion
Ingredients:
- 3 oz The Spirit of Bourbon
- ½ tsp bourbon barrel aged maple syrup
- Dash of All The Bitter Aromatic Bitters
Method:
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass and half fill with ice. Stir until chilled, then strain into a rocks glass with one large cube. Express oil of orange peel over the drink and drop in a cherry.
Spiritless Watermelon Mint Julep
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Spiritless Kentucky 74
- 1 ½ oz. Watermelon Juice
- ½ oz. Simple Syrup (1:1 sugar to water)
- ½ oz. Lime Juice
- Mint
- Black Salt
Method:
Put all ingredients in julep cup or glass. Add 5 mint leaves and muddle. Add ice preferably crushed or pebble ice. Garnish with mint watermelon and sprinkle black salt. Â
Whiskey Smash (similar to the mint julep)
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ oz of The Spirit of Bourbon
- ¼ oz of simple syrup
- 2 dashes All The Bitter Orange Bitters
- 2 lemon wheels
- 2 large mint sprigs
- Crushed ice
Method:
In a rocks glass, gently muddle mint with simple syrup to release the oils. Add lemon wheels and muddle to release juice. Add crushed ice or small cubes, add 2 dashes of bitters and pour bourbon over. Swizzle gently to mix. Garnish with a mint sprig and more lemon.
Off to the races and cheers to all the Derby fans out there!