Run for the Roses

It is called the run for the roses, but this weekend is smothered in mint! Yes this is the wonderful late springtime when colts cantor about and the fresh new shoots or perennial mint burst with flavor! I adore mint juleps! So, like many others, I will don my chapeau this weekend at various Chic Derby Events.

Now I love tradition, but I like to present it enjoué, and make it my own! Thank goodness I have fabulous clients who agree! This year I'll be using crystal flutes for the mint juleps, and silver mint julep cups for the roses! I am making a runner with fresh mint leaves, and massing mint julep cups with nosegays of red roses down the center of the buffet!

The mint julep will be the star of the show! In addition to the traditional Julep, I'm offering a Lemon Mint Julep, using one of my favorite liqueurs from Italy, Limoncello!

In speaking with clients and friends alike this past week, it has become clear to me that many people really do not know how to make this glorious cocktail, so cherished in the old south.

Here are the two concoctions my clients will be enjoying this weekend, feel free to let your inner mixologist be creative, and channel cool cocktails this Derby Weekend!

2 cups sugar [you may use splenda to decrease calories]
2 cups water
Sprigs of fresh mint
Crushed ice
Kentucky Whisky or Limoncello
Silver Julep Cups

Make a simple syrup by boiling sugar and water together for five minutes. Cool and place in a covered container with six or eight sprigs of fresh mint, then refrigerate overnight. Make one julep at a time by filling a julep cup with crushed ice, adding one tablespoon mint syrup and two ounces of Kentucky Whisky or the Limoncello. Stir rapidly with a spoon to frost the outside of the cup. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or mint and sugared lemon peel.

It's a long shot I'll be able to help you with this Kentucy Derby, but not too late to check out www.featurepresentationsltd.com and ask for our help on other events in the near future, or book us for the Kentucky Derby 2009!