The Kentucky Mint Julep

The Kentucky Mint Julep

by JoeNickell (Author)

Synopsis

A simple concoction - bourbon, mint, sugar, and water - the mint julep has become a legendary drink. Few people know its history and even fewer know how to properly mix this classic cocktail. Lighthearted, entertaining, and informative, The Kentucky Mint Julep explores the lore and legend of the Kentucky Derby's traditional tipple. Joe Nickell looks at the origins of the julep and the etymology of the word itself, offers a brief history of American whiskey and Kentucky bourbon, and shares some classic julep tales, including Irvin S. Cobb's theory that a disagreement over a julep's ingredients was the real cause of the Civil War. Information on julep cups, tips on garnishing and serving, and reminiscences from the likes of Charles Dickens, Washington Irving, and General John Hunt Morgan give a fun, historic look at Kentucky's favorite drink. The book includes numerous recipes - for classic juleps, modern variations on the drink, non-alcoholic versions, and the author's own thoroughly researched perfect mint julep. This delightful book is illustrated with historic photographs and illustrations, a map of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and more.

$17.52

Quantity

1 in stock

More Information

Format: Illustrated
Pages: 96
Edition: Illustrated
Publisher: University Press of Kentucky
Published: 11 Apr 2003

ISBN 10: 0813122759
ISBN 13: 9780813122755

Media Reviews

An entertaining look at the lore, legend and favored formulas for one of America's most storied cocktails. -- Baltimore Sun; Glens Falls (NY) Post-Star, Passaic (NJ) Herald News, Duluth (MN)


Nickell gives us the history and lore of the beverage as well as a travel guide to Kentucky's Bourbon Trail. He adds plenty of recipes, both traditional and modern, and even a page for writing your own. -- Bloomsbury Review


An enjoyable foray through the history and legend of one of the south's most recognizable symbols. -- Chevy Chaser/Southsider


Presents information you will find nowhere else.... The recipes run from the basic to fancy ones using champagne or added flavors, making it a great resource for entertaining. Any fan of the derby or mint juleps will find this book a charming addition to their shelf. -- Horse-Races.net


A delightful addition to kitchen libraries in and outside the Bluegrass. -- Kentucky Monthly


A lovely little book. Nickell offers tips on how to make the perfect mint julep [and] provides historic julep recipes from such luminaries as Henry Clay and Irvin S. Cobb. You learn a great deal about Kentucky's official state drink. -- Louisville Courier-Journal


Short and frequently as sweet as the drink it covers, The Kentucky Mint Julep is a fun, refreshing read. -- Manchester (NH) Hippo


Mint, syrup, bourbon. Horse-racing fans instantly recognize those ingredients for a mint julep, the signature cocktail of the Kentucky Derby. The book has more than 20 recipes.... It's definitely a book to read before you buy silver julep cups. -- New York Times


The mint julep... the legend, the Southern signature, the Derby Dream. Here it is -- and pay attention to the ingredients. Substitutions don't cut it. -- Rockland (ME) Courier-Gazette

Author Bio
Joe Nickell has worked as a stage magician, carnival pitchman, private detective, advertising writer, riverboat manager, civil rights worker, armed guard, movie extra, blackjack dealer, paranormal investigator, historical document examiner, university instructor, sign painter, museum exhibit designer, surveyor's chainman, steelworker, tavern waiter, forklift driver, and newspaper stringer. He is the author of Crime Science: Methods of Forensic Detection and Real-Life X-Files: Investigating the Paranormal: He is an honorary Kentucky Colonel but lives in Buffalo, New York.