A twist on the classic cocktail, this Prosecco Mint Julep is a bit lighter and deliciously flavorful. You won't be sorry you veered from the classic!
The long standing classic cocktail at the Kentucky Derby, since 1938, has always been the Mint Julep. A very simple recipe with a good Kentucky bourbon, crushed ice, sugar, water and fresh mint. There are several variations of the mint julep including the substitution of the sacred bourbon for gin.
Of the numerous Mint Julep recipes we've tried, Debbie and I have found our individual tastes. We settled on the Prosecco Mint Julep made with Prosecco (or any Champagne/Sparkling Wine). The sparkling wine gives the cocktail a nice carbonation and smoothes out the bourbon kick. I added St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, which has its own nice flavor profile, eliminating the need for sugar.
Here is the recipe we chose:
Prosecco Mint Julep
Ingredients
- 2 ounces good Kentucky bourbon, or gin if that's your preference.
- ½ ounce St Germain Liqueur
- 3 to 4 ounces Prosecco, or Champagne or other sparkling wine
- 3 to 4 sprigs fresh mint
- Crushed ice
Instructions
- Fill a wine glass with crushed ice.
- Place the bourbon, St. Germain and some fresh mint leaves in a cocktail shaker and gently muddle the mint leaves.
- Pour the mixture into the wine glass over the ice.
- Pour 3 to 4 ounces of Prosecco into the glass and garnish with some fresh mint.
- Now you’re off to the races!
Notes
Gr8 tips:
You can use Champagne or Sparkling wine as a substitute for the Prosecco. Debbie preferred the gin over the bourbon in the julep. I, of course, preferred the bourbon, and perhaps even a 3 ounce pour!Other whiskey cocktails to try!
Be a Gr8 Friend and tell us what you think!