Mint juleps were popular right around the time ice houses were built, making ice more readily available. Because ice was sold in big blocks at the time, bartenders chipped off chunks, placed them in canvas bags, and crushed them with mallets. Unlike cocktails with a big single cube of ice that melts more slowly, crushed ice melts quickly, aiding in diluting a strong drink like a mint julep, while also keeping everything icy-cold and refreshing.
Christine Gallary
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