For many, the first Saturday in May means two things: fast horses and a classic Mint Julep in hand. The strong, sweet bourbon drink is a historical staple of the Kentucky Derby. However, sometimes you want the mint without the heavy julep (especially when hosting a family friendly or all day viewing party). Check out these mint julep inspired drinks for the Kentucky Derby weekend.
This year, feel free to skip the whiskey and embrace a non alcoholic approach that keeps all the refreshing, vibrant spirit of the day alive. We are taking inspiration from the Derby’s official flavor profile and crafting a suite of Mint Julep Inspired non-alcoholic drinks, perfect for any point in the race weekend.
The secret weapon for these drinks is our signature Mint Simple Syrup Recipe, which infuses every sip with classic Derby flavor.
What could a Kentucky Derby party spread look like?
What Mint Julep Inspired Drinks should I serve at a Kentucky Derby party?
If You Are Craving A Morning Derby Fuel-Up…
Then Try the Mint Chip Mocha Latte
Who says Derby day starts in the afternoon? Before the undercard races begin, fuel your morning with a sophisticated twist on your favorite coffee shop drink. Our Mint Chip Mocha Latte layers rich dark chocolate, smooth espresso, and a minty finish, creating a perfect balance that feels both festive and restorative. It’s a great way to start the weekend.
If You Are Craving A Traditional, Zesty Pick-Me-Up…
Then Try the Mint Lemonade
Derby Day often calls for something bright and effervescent. If you are looking for that classic, sharp acidity that cuts through a warm afternoon, feel free to skip the heavy bourbon and mix up a pitch perfect Mint Lemonade. Take it a step further by adding sparkling soda water to our minty lemonade to get all the refreshing, tongue-tingling goodness without the buzz.
If You Are Craving An Aromatic, Afternoon Quencher…
Then Try the Mint Sweet Iced Tea
Nothing says Southern hospitality quite like a tall glass of sweet tea. Our Mint Iced Tea elevates this classic from “daily sip” to “Derby essential.” It’s an easy-drinking, all-day quench, perfect for sipping while debating your race day picks on a shaded patio. We suggest using an herbal tea base and letting the fresh mint simple syrup create a layered, sophisticated flavor profile.
If You Are Craving A Fruit-Forward, Celebration Drink…
Then Try the Watermelon Mojito
When you want to feel like you’re celebrating in the Winner’s Circle, you need a drink that looks and tastes like a holiday. If you are craving that classic cuban mojito freshness but want to add a vibrant, summer twist, try our Virgin Watermelon Mojito. We blend fresh watermelon and then add our mint simple syrup to create a great summer mocktail. It’s colorful, refreshing, and incredibly photogenic, see below.
There is an adult beverage version of the watermelon mojito here.
Make the Essential: The Classic Mint Simple Syrup
Before you start mixing, you have to create your foundation. This mint simple syrup is incredibly versatile and stores beautifully in your refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- 1 cup Water
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup packed fresh Mint
Instructions:
- Heat: In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not let it boil.
- Infuse: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the fresh mint sprigs. Stir them once or twice to submerge them completely.
- Steep: Let the mint steep in the warm syrup for 20 minutes.
- Strain: Pour the simple syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a heat-safe glass container or jar, discarding the mint sprigs.
- Cool: Let the syrup cool to room temperature before covering it tightly and storing it in the refrigerator.
What party snacks should I make to go with the Kentucy Derby mint drinks?
In the photos above, I have pictured my Greek chicken kebabs and matcha bread. These colorful party foods make perfect Kentucky Derby treats.
This weekend, honor the mint julep tradition on your own terms. Whether you choose the complex coffee, the aromatic tea, or the vibrant watermelon, these non-alcoholic options are sure to make you feel like you have a winning ticket! Enjoy the races!
