The way I know it’s almost Derby season every year is that Woodford Reserve rolls out its $5000 and $2000 Mint Julep Cups and the year’s official mint julep recipe. These cups are available for purchase online and can be picked up at Churchill Downs on Oaks Day or Derby Day. This year’s cups support Closely Crafted, “a nonprofit founded by New York milliner Gigi Burris O’Hara dedicated to preserving and advancing artisan craftsmanship in the American fashion industry.”

This year’s recipe is a nod to the ties between the founding of Kentucky, the founding of the nation, and Thomas Jefferson. At a press conference earlier today, Master Distiller Emeretus Chris Morris explained the connections between the founding father and Churchill Downs. Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall then demonstrated the build for this year’s mint julep recipe.

I say every year around this time that a well-made mint julep is a thing of beauty, and you should have one once a year. If you don’t like them it’s probably because you’ve only had mint juleps that were not made very well.

“This year’s julep charity program marries two historic events – the birth of the United States and the most iconic American race, run every year at Churchill Downs since 1875,” Woodford Reserve Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall said.

2026 Woodford Reserve $5000 Mint Julep Recipe

A classically simple julep honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Drop 5-7 mint leaves in the bottom of a julep cup. Muddle to release the aromas

Add 2 ounces of Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Bourbon

Add one bar spoon of sweetener – a simple syrup made with sugar maple syrup slightly spiced with Thomas Jefferson’s favorite spices, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Top the julep cup with ice.

Add sipping straw and two sprigs of fresh mint and the garnish – a white and blue Fleur-de-lis and the official flower of both the Kentucky Derby and the USA – the red rose. A red, white, and blue flourish to celebrate USA 250.

Photos Courtesy of Maggie Kimberl