Slurp up cinema: recreating drinks from the screen
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission. Thank you
SKIP TO: RECIPE
Welcome to Bite Club your go to place for recreating recipes from the screen. This week, we’re roaring into the twenties, and mixing up a Mint Julep, the quintessential Southern cocktail that plays a key role in THE GREAT GATSBY. Though Baz Luhrmann’s spends more time on champagne towers, we're following in the footsteps of the novel, and giving the Mint Julep the attention she truly deserves.
The Mint Julep has deep roots in the American South, dating back to the 18th century, and is traditionally made with bourbon, sugar, mint, and crushed ice, the ultimate hot-weather refresher. It’s elegant, icy, and exactly the drink Daisy Buchanan sips while the world around her falls apart.
We’ve included both a classic alcoholic version and created a delicious mocktail twist, so whether you’re throwing a raucous party or just want something cooling for a summer evening, there’s a Julep here for you.
Watch our video for step-by-step tips on muddling, twisting and shaking, and subscribe for more food-and-drink moments straight from the screen.
It's time to raise a glass to Gatsby 🥂✨
MINT JULEP "the alcohol version"
INGREDIENTS (serves 1)
60 ml of Kentucky bourbon (we use Maker's Mark)
4-5 mint leaves
1 tbsp simple syrup, adjust to taste
Crushed ice
To garnish:
Sprig of mint
Lime wedge
METHOD
Place in the mint leaves in the bottom of a short tumbler, and muddle the leaves until beautifully fragrant.
Fill the glass with crushed ice. Pour over the bourbon, and the simple syrup. Stir to combine.
Garnish with a wedge of lime, and a sprig of mint.
ANGELIC MINT JULEP"the mocktail version"
INGREDIENTS (serves 1)
60 ml of ginger ale, or non alcoholic bourbon
4-5 mint leaves
1/2 tbsp simple syrup, adjust to taste
Crushed ice
To garnish:
Sprig of mint
Lime wedge
METHOD
Place in the mint leaves in the bottom of a short tumbler, and muddle the leaves until beautifully fragrant.
Fill the glass with crushed ice. Pour over the ginger ale or non-alcoholic bourbon, and the simple syrup. Stir to combine.
Garnish with a wedge of lime, and a sprig of mint.
SIMPLE SYRUP
INGREDIENTS
200 g granulated sugar
200 ml water
METHOD
Place the sugar and water in a small saucepan.
Heat over a medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat as soon as the sugar dissolves, no need to boil.
Pour into a clean airtight bottle and leave to cool fully, before refrigerating.
Store in the fridge.
