‘From Kentucky’: The mint behind the Kentucky Derby’s signature drink
By Joyce Ogirri
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NEW HOPE, Kentucky (WLKY) — Before the first mint julep is poured at Churchill Downs, the key ingredient begins its journey on a quiet farm in Nelson County.
Rows of fresh mint stretch across the Nelson family farm in New Hope, the starting point for one of the Kentucky Derby’s most recognizable traditions.
“For Derby, we’re pretty much cutting all day,” said farmer Nick Nelson of Nelson Family Agriculture.
Nelson supplies the mint used in the iconic mint juleps served each year at Churchill Downs. As Derby season approaches, his workload ramps up quickly.
“During Derby season, I usually start around 4:30 in the morning to make deliveries,” Nelson said. “A typical day, as long as the weather cooperates, we’re usually wrapping up around 7 in the evening.”
In the two weeks leading up to the race, production intensifies.
“We’ll cut between 300 and 500 dozen bunches a day,” Nelson said.
That surge in demand reflects the thousands of mint juleps prepared for racegoers each year, a drink synonymous with Derby Day.
Derby season accounts for about a quarter of Nelson’s business. While he says orders are slightly down compared to last year, he expects that to change as race day gets closer.
“I know we’ll get more orders. Compared to last year, it’s down right now, but it’s early. That can change,” he said.
Despite the long hours and pressure, Nelson says the work is rewarding.
“This is truly coming from Kentucky. We enjoy everything about it. It’s stressful being the one they count on,” he said.
It’s also a family effort. Nelson says involving his children in the work is one of the most meaningful parts of the job.
“We’ve got four kids, and we love the work ethic they’re learning through this,” he said.
Nelson says he’ll make his first delivery to Churchill Downs on Tuesday, bringing 100 cases.
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