As we welcome the vibrant hues and warmth of spring, we also welcome an array of exciting activities. Among these is the historic Kentucky Derby, an annual event held on the first Saturday in May in Louisville, Kentucky. Simultaneously embodying a burst of seasonal excitement and a preservation of age-old traditions, the event is something we eagerly look forward to every year. And what better way to enhance the experience than savoring a refreshing Mint Julep amid the pulsating race?

Preparing your own Mint Julep at home is an effortless task, provided you have the right bartending tools. We have sought the counsel of a variety of professional mixologists for recommendations on must-have items to perfect your Derby Day drink. The experts had a diverse range of suggestions, from Julep cups to muddlers and ice bags.

Ian Mendelsohn, Beverage Director at Fifth Group Restaurants in Atlanta, believes the Julep cup is essential. "The aesthetic and sensation of a Julep cup are unique. Even though it can't transport you to the South or to a horse race, the visual appeal, the tactility, and the moisture droplets from the ice on the cup's exterior do a remarkable job in recreating the atmosphere right where you are. I also believe that the straw plays a vital role in the cocktail experience. It should always be inserted amidst the mint garnish, ensuring that the tantalizing aroma of mint is the first thing that hits you as you take a sip," he advises.

According to Mendelsohn, a sturdy jigger with clearly marked lines for volumes, ranging from 0.25 ounces to 2 ounces, is another critical tool. Exact measurements are crucial to achieve the desired cocktail taste.

For Anthony Caporale, Director of Spirits Education at the Institute of Culinary Education, his top pick is an ice bag and mallet. The Mint Julep, often termed 'air conditioning in a glass,' requires crushed ice for optimal cooling.

On the other hand, Dimitri Gellis, General Manager at Fatpour Tap Works in Chicago, emphasizes the significance of a double strainer, which keeps any mint particles from adulterating the drink.

Bridget Albert, Senior Director of External Communications at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits, insists on a muddler which is used to delicately bruise mint leaves and release their essential oils. A perfectly muddled mint, according to Albert, is crucial to nailing the flavor of a Mint Julep, thereby making the muddler the 'hero' of the cocktail-making process.

An essential tool, in David Orellana's opinion, Beverage Director at Grand Brasserie in New York City, is the Barfly’s Teardrop Bar Spoon. This ultra-durable stainless steel spoon is great for stirring and measuring while crafting your beverage.

Amir Babayoff, Bar Director at Ophelia in New York City, asserts that a muddler is the most vital tool when crafting a Julep. He recommends a comfortable and weighty muddler for releasing the flavors of mint without making them bitter.