The Spirit World

It seems almost sacreligious to have a Kentucky Derby fete, without serving Mint Juleps.  Unfortunately, with Cinco de Mayo this weekend also, that celebration won out in our household, but for those of you planning to watch or entertain with the Derby as your backdrop, you may be interested in this vanilla-flavored version from the folks at Phillips Union Whiskey.  Featuring a blend of Kentucky Bourbon, Canadian Whisky, and Phillips Union Vanilla, it’s a unique twist on a classic.  Although I haven’t tried it yet, Phillips says that the unique blend of the whiskeys provides a “smoother and one-of-a-kind taste, and avoids the burn and bitterness so often associated with other whiskey brands.” 

“The Kentucky Derby is all about tradition, and enjoying a mint julep during the race is a part of that,” said Dean Phillips, president and CEO of Phillips Distilling Company. “And when it comes to selecting the whiskey for a Mint Julep, picking the long-shot – a flavored whiskey - is not only the safe bet, it’s the clear winner. That’s why we’ve created not one, but two versions of the Mint Julep including one made with the first-ever vanilla-flavored whiskey—Phillips Union Vanilla.”

Phillips Union Smooth Mint Julep
2 ½ parts Phillips Union Whiskey
4 fresh mint sprigs
1 tsp. powdered sugar
2 tsp. water
Muddle mint leaves, powdered sugar, and water in a Collins glass.  Fill the glass with shaved or crushed ice and add Phillips Union Whiskey. Top with more ice and garnish with a mint sprig.

Phillips Union Vanilla Mint Julep
2 ½ parts Phillips Union Vanilla Whiskey
4 fresh mint sprigs
1 tsp. powdered sugar
2 tsp. water

Muddle mint leaves, powdered sugar, and water in a Collins glass.  Fill the glass with shaved or crushed ice and add Phillips Union Vanilla. Top with more ice and garnish with a mint sprig.

For additional cocktail recipes visit www.phillipsunion.com.

The Kentucky Derby takes place Saturday, May 5 at Churchill Downs in Lexington, Kentucky.