This week warmed up again in New England, so we're milking this warm weather summer feeling for all it's worth! Thinking of some of the most refreshing cocktails I know, the classic Champagne Julep immediately come to mind; let's take a look!
The "julep" is a family of cocktails which entails mixing a spirit with sugar, citrus, and some kind of herb or fruit via the process of muddling. Most commonly, juleps are made with mint leaves, hence the name of the most popular julep, the Mint Julep! The Mint Julep, which is the mainstay of the Kentucky Derby because of its inclusion of Kentucky Bourbon, is both the reigning king and grandfather of the julep family. Our version, the Champagne Julep, started to become especially popular throughout the Jazz Age, and hit its peak in the 1940s (think The Great Gatsby). Let's take a look at our ingredients:
- 1 tbsp simple syrup
- 7-8 mint leaves
- Splash of fresh lime juice
- Champagne, chilled
- Sprint of mint leaves for garnish
Preparation:
Begin by muddling mint leaves, simple syrup, and a splash of fresh lime juice in the bottom of a glass. Remember, you only need to muddle hard enough to release the oils from the mint leaves; we do not want to pulverize them into a pulp! Transfer muddled mixture into a Collins or cocktail glass of choice, add ice, top off with champagne, and garnish with a sprig of mint leaves for extra measure! It is important to note that you may need to use a bar spoon to effectively combine champagne with muddled ingredients. Oh, and don't forget to enjoy!
Recommended accompaniment:
For your listening pleasure, we recommend Milton Ager's "Ain't She Sweet." Featured in Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris, this song was originally released in 1927 and became one of the anthems of the "Roaring Twenties!"
Until next week!
Jerron J.
