The Allure Of Mint Julep Candy: History And Recipes

While the mint julep has become synonymous with the kentucky derby, its history is more global. The etymology of the word julep has its roots in ancient persia as gulab (rosewater) or julab. In the mediterranean, indigenous mint replaced the rose petals and the mint julep rose in popularity. The drink got its first mention in print in 1803. For those wishing to imbibe in the traditional version, here is an early printing of the recipe, from 1845.

It gained popularity in southern america, particularly.