Hello, swingers…settle in, pull up a groove and get fabulous. It’s time for your Weekend Tiki (Retro) Cocktail.
With the running of the Kentucky Derby last week it was only a matter of time before my mind turned to booze. Well, I don’t mean that literally, although at this rate someday it just might. Anyway, the minute I realized it was Kentucky Derby time the tune from “One Mint Julep” started going around in my head and thoughts of Bourbon and mint started swirling in the giant martini glass that holds my brain.
The Mint Julep
…isn’t my favorite drink, but it’s been a staple of deep south backyard parties and sporting events for as long as Bourbon has been around. Personally I’d rather have a Mojito, but I don’t think they serve them in Kentucky.
4 fresh mint sprigs
2 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
1 tsp powdered sugar
2 tsp water
Muddle mint leaves, powdered sugar, and water in a tall glass. Fill the glass with shaved or crushed ice and add bourbon. Top with more ice and garnish with slices of orange, lemon, pineapple and a cherry, plus a mint sprig. Just like a Mai Tai, the mint sprig should protrude from the glass high enough so that you get the scent while sipping. Serve with a straw, paper one if you can find it.
And now for the song…One Mint Julep, this version by The Clovers
-Tiki Chris reporting from the grand stand at Tiki Lounge Talk, the web lounge for kool kats and swingin’ kittens.
I had the same swingin’ tune going through my head last weekend, but it was the instrumental, Ray Charles version – one of my all time faves. We had some juleps while watching Mad Men – and bought some 4 Roses just for the occasion!
They still make 4 Roses??? Haven’t seen that in years!
Yes, Ray’s version is fantastic, very soulful on the Hammond. I like Sam Butera’s version from the 1950’s too, very swingin’.