Mix 'Em With Mint! 10 Refreshing Drinks That Aren't a Julep

POPSUGAR Photography
POPSUGAR Photography

When thinking of the Kentucky Derby, mint juleps are probably on your radar. But if bourbon isn't your thing or you're just looking for something different, boy have we got the liquor list for you. From a kiwi-tequila cobbler to twists on classic cocktails, here are 10 refreshing drinks with mint to get you in the racing (and sipping) spirit.

Kiwi Cobbler
POPSUGAR Photography | Anna Monette Roberts

Kiwi Cobbler

This refreshing kiwi cobbler cocktail is perfect for those warm Spring days. Make it with mint, kiwi, and tequila, and either sip it on your porch or pack it for a picnic.

Mojito
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Mojito

We're firm believers that a darn good mojito can take any day from drab to fab. This mint and rum cocktail makes for one tantalizing concoction.

Strawberry-Bourbon Cobbler
POPSUGAR Photography | Anna Monette Roberts

Strawberry-Bourbon Cobbler

If a mint julep is too strong for your tastes — it is, after all, mostly bourbon — but you're still looking to toast to the Derby with a bourbon bevvy, try this bright and fruity take on the bourbon and mint classic.

Southside
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Southside

A Prohibition-era classic, the southside is like sophisticated gin-and-mint spin on lemonade.

Bramble
POPSUGAR Photography | Katie Sweeney

Bramble

Gin-lovers will want to listen up, because we've got a stellar recipe for you. The bramble is an unfussy gin, lemon, and berry mixture — think potent but with a tart and fruity taste.

Pimm's Cup
POPSUGAR Photography | Anna Monette Roberts

Pimm's Cup

For daytime drinking, it doesn't get much better than a Pimm's Cup, a lower-alcohol (read: refreshing) mix of Pimm's No. 1, ginger ale, mint, lemon, and cucumber.

Southern Exposure
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Southern Exposure

Celery juice may be the ingenious ingredient that sets this Southern Exposure recipe apart, but the aromatic oils from the mint are key, too.

Limoncello Champagne Cocktail
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Limoncello Champagne Cocktail

We could have this limoncello Champagne cocktail day or night. There is a little bit of work involved, because you'll have to purée the mint, lemon peel, and limoncello, but trust us when we say it's well worth it.

Garden and Tonic
POPSUGAR Photography | Susannah Chen

Garden and Tonic

It's hard to beat a classic gin and tonic when it comes to a delightful cocktail, but this variation is far better if you ask us. The starring ingredients? Elderflower liqueur, mint, cucumber, and celery bitters.

Ginger, Mint, and Pomegranate Cocktail

This is one cocktail that's festive enough for any time of year. Combine mint, ginger, and pomegranate with vodka for a spritzy refreshment that's unexpected. Watch the video, and make the recipe for instant invigoration.