Which whisky cocktail combines bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice?

A mint julep combines bourbon, mint, sugar, and crushed ice.

The drink is traditionally served in a julep cup, often made from silver or another metal that becomes frosty on the outside. A basic preparation muddles or gently presses mint with sugar, adds bourbon, and fills the cup with crushed ice before garnishing with a mint sprig.

The mint julep is especially associated with the Kentucky Derby, where it has been promoted as the event’s signature drink. The drink’s history predates the race, and earlier juleps could be made with different spirits. Bourbon became the best-known modern version because of the cocktail’s strong connection with Kentucky.

The mint julep is sometimes confused with the mojito because both use mint and sugar. A mojito uses rum and typically soda water, while the classic bourbon julep does not depend on soda. The crushed ice and prominent mint garnish are central visual features of the julep.