People who choose to celebrate The Running of the Kentucky Derby in the Lake Oconee area usually do so at one of the many private parties held in homes. Bets are made, hats are worn by the ladies, and of course appropriate food and drink is served. One yearly party we attend is hosted by a couple who are Louisville natives, and who have celebrated the Derby with a party every year for the past 40 years. They serve the real Mint Juleps in silver cups, made the traditional way. Last year the Harbor Club Ladies League had a luncheon Derby celebration at one of the lakeside homes in this community. Being in on the planning, I set out to create a Mint Julep that was a little more ladylike, and didn’t feature bourbon. I was inspired by cocktails I had sampled in Charleston that featured sweet tea flavored vodka. Everyone loved the Harbor Club Mint Julep, so I am sharing the recipe on this page.
Harbor Club Mint Julep
2 oz sweet tea vodka
2 oz lemonade
½ oz simple syrup
½ oz of peppermint schnapps
Serve over crushed ice, garnished with sprig of mint