You don't have to wait for Derby Day to enjoy a Mint Julep, although the cocktail has been the traditional drink at Churchill Downs for the better part of a century. The traditional Mint Julep is a bourbon lover's dream cocktail, consisting of nothing more than ice, sugar, mint, and a whole lot of whiskey. (Find our recipe
here.)What bourbon to use? Since it's the star of the drink, you can't go wrong choosing your favorite brand. But if you're looking for a suggestion, try one of these bottles, as reviewed in our Buying Guide.
Juice Up Your Julep With These Recommended Bourbons
Maker's Mark—$25, 89 pointsTried and true with caramel, praline, and pecan flavors, this classic's floral profile willmake the mint sing.
1792 Sweet Wheat—$33, 88 pointsYou may be able to dial down the sugar a bit with this naturally sweet wheater.
Jim Beam Bonded—$23, 88 pointsAt 100 proof, this bottled-in-bond bourbonpacks a wallop—sip slowly.
Bulleit—$25, 87 pointsBalanced and rounded, a crowd-pleaserthat will make everyone happy.
Larceny—$25, 86 pointsCreamy sweetness and a drying finish play nicely from the first sip to the last.
Smooth Ambler Yearling—$24, 84 pointsThe West Virginia distillery's house-made wheated bourbon comes in a small bottle packed with big flavor.
W.L. Weller Special Reserve—$18, 82 pointsA younger (and less expensive) sibling to
William Larue Weller, this wheater is well worth seeking out.
Wild Turkey 81—$20, 82 pointsA great high-rye sipper, it takes to ice like a duck to water.
