Culture

The Prescription Julep

The Prescription Julep is a 19th-century drink that swaps in Cognac and rye whiskey or bourbon
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Growing up in Georgia, I remember punishingly humid summer days when the only relief was a cold drink. Kids got Coca-Cola. Grown-ups sipped classic Mint Juleps. These days, I favor the Prescription Julep, from a 19th-century recipe that swaps in Cognac and rye whiskey for bourbon. It's the most refreshing, complex-tasting Julep you'll ever try. How much do I love Juleps? So much that I named my daughter after one (and no, I'm not kidding).

The Prescription Julep
Makes 1

  1. Lightly muddle 10 mint leaves and 1 Tbsp. Simple Syrup (click for recipe) in a mixing glass
  2. Stir in 3 Tbsp. VSOP Cognac and 2 Tbsp. rye whiskey
  3. Fill a Julep cup or glass with crushed ice. Pour mixture over.
  4. Stir until frost forms on outside of cup.
  5. Add more crushed ice to make a mound.
  6. Garnish with 4 mint sprigs and serve with a straw.

Didn't inherit Granddaddy's silver Julep cup? Buy one online and start the tradition today.