In the heart of Kentucky, each spring sees a unique confluence of two defining state specialties. As racehorses compete in the notable Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, spectators toast to the event with an iconic drink-the Mint Julep.

This year amplifies the excitement as the Kentucky Derby reaches its sesquicentennial milestone. The pride of Kentucky-the Mint Julep-is poised to star as the race's signature drink. This classic beverage has remained synonymous with the Derby, eloquently presenting a sublime blend of bourbon, sugar, mint, and crushed ice served in a traditional metal cup.

Notably, Ashley Roach, lead bartender at Louisville's renowned bourbon bar Watch Hill Proper, provides a historical perspective. "Dating to the 1820s, victorious jockeys of the Kentucky Derby were presented with sterling silver julep cups, marking their triumph," says Roach. "Today, these iconic cups still hold the signature julep."

The link between the Mint Julep and the Kentucky Derby grew stronger in 1939 when the cocktail was officially named the Derby’s tipple. According to SC Baker, bar manager at Louisville cocktail bar Epiphany, this came about after visitors at the 1938 Derby enjoyed the beverage served in the event's decorated water glasses so much that they took them home.

This year's Derby will also celebrate the 85th anniversary of these iconic metal julep cups being a staple among spectators. When asked how to make the perfect Mint Julep, Dante Wheat, bar manager at Louisville's Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop reveals that the key to making this stylishly simple drink is the quality of the bourbon. Given its ingredients, if you don't choose a good whiskey, it’s just not a true Mint Julep.

The right type of bourbon should be good to drink without any mixers, stresses Jeff Knott, owner and operator of the Tartan House. Knott and Wheat both advise on strong, full-flavored whiskeys that are at least 90-95 proof (45–47.5% ABV). Likewise, both Baker and Roach suggest using a minimum 100-proof (50% ABV) bottling. Whichever you prefer, the bourbon you select should ideally be savored neat.

Availability should also factor into your decision, Roach adds. With the proliferation of bourbon brands, it’s increasingly complicated to find specific labels. He recommends getting used to the ones that are typically available on the shelf.

Luckily, various whiskies suitable for crafting a delightful Mint Julep are available at most liquor stores. To help you decide, we asked Kentucky's top bar experts for their preferred bourbons to pair with the Derby's iconic cocktail.

Buffalo Trace Distillery stands out with its flagship bourbon, known for its versatility and mild profile. If you are lucky enough to find this popular brand, its blend of brown sugar, vanilla, toffee, and a hint of rye spice makes it a great choice for a julep, Roach states.

Larceny's Small Batch, a ‘wheated’ bourbon-a style that uses wheat as the secondary grain rather than the customary rye-is another highly recommended option. Roach points out its cinnamon spice, nutmeg, and sweet honey profile makes it perfect for a refreshing Mint Julep.

Woodford Reserve is a traditional choice for the Mint Julep, aptly recognized as the "official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby." Roach suggests the Woodford Reserve Double Oaked for a sweeter take on the cocktail. If experiencing the Derby on-site, you can sample Woodford Reserve's special Thousand Dollar Julep, with the proceeds going towards supporting the Backside Learning Center.

However, if you're watching with a larger group, the affordable J.W. Dant from the Heaven Hill Distillery could be just right for you. A fabulous choice, this bourbon has warm baking spices notes that offer a great partner to the refreshing mint in a Julep, Wheat says.

For the race enthusiasts, Four Roses Single Barrel brings a flavor explosion when you're preparing a batch of Mint Juleps. Its natural fruity sweetness is highlighted when skilfully combined with the components of the Mint Julep, Roach explains.

Knob Creek's small-batch bourbon from the James B. Beam distillery in Clermont, Kentucky makes a delightful Mint Julep, while Blanton’s Takara Gold, an exclusive single barrel bourbon, truly lets your Mint Julep stand out. Wheat admits that using this expensive but unique single barrel bourbon in a cocktail is seemingly over-indulgent, yet the results are outstanding, he says.

So which bourbon will you choose to mark the 150th anniversary of this iconic race? Remember-just as with the Kentucky Derby itself, with Mint Juleps, the only real race is in finding the perfect bourbon.