Thirsty Thursday- Mint Juleps

Big hats, gorgeous sun dresses, celebrities, and some of the most athletic race horses in the world. Nothing beats a day out at Churchill Downs like the Kentucky Derby. A few years back one of my girlfriends lived in Louisville and we got the opportunity to head out to the race track to catch a few races. I have loved horses all my life, so getting to see it first hand was super exciting for me.  With the derby on May 5th I thought i'd share the Kentucky Derby's signature cocktail the Mint Julep.

What you'll need:
2 cups water
2 cups white sugar
1/2 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
32 ounces Kentucky bourbon (Makers Mark preferred)
8 springs fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Directions:
1. Combine water, sugar, mint leaves in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat until sugar has completely dissolved. Allow syrup to cool for about an hour, to speed up the process I put it in the fridge. Pour syrup through a strainer to remove mint leaves.
2. Fill eight cups with ice and pour 4 ounces Makers Mark and 1/4 cup of the mint syrup in each.
3. Garnish with mint sprig and drink up! :)