Instructions
- Add mint leaves and simple syrup to a julep cup.
- Gently muddle to bruise the mint and release the aromatic oils.
- Fill the cup with crushed ice and pour in the amaro.
- Stir gently until the outside of the cup begins to frost.
- Top with more crushed ice and garnish with a fresh mint sprig.
📜 History
The Julep is one of America's oldest cocktail formats, dating to the late 18th century and traditionally built with bourbon or rye. Substituting amaro transforms the drink entirely: the bittersweet, botanical character of an Italian amaro takes naturally to the muddled mint and crushed ice structure, creating a nuanced sipper that works equally well as an aperitif and a warm-weather afternoon cocktail. The combination of herbal liqueur and crushed mint is a natural low-ABV alternative to the classic bourbon format.
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