Mint is one of the most versatile herbs in the cocktail world. Whether it’s the star of a mojito or a refreshing garnish on a summer spritz, mint brings a burst of cool, clean flavor that makes every sip feel crisp and refreshing. But did you know there are several types of mint—each with their own unique twist?
Yup, in my garden I have spearmint, pineapple mint, apple mint, chocolate mint, strawberry mint, orange mint, pear mint, and I’m always on the hunt for others. However…
NEVER, EVER PLANT MINT IN THE GROUND! Unless you want a carpet of mint, you will want to keep your mint in a pot to prevent it from spreading and taking over your garden and lawn.
Let’s break it down so you can start experimenting like a pro.
Flavor Profile
Bright, cooling, and sweet with a crisp, clean finish.
Types of Mint to Use in Cocktails
There’s more than one kind of mint growing in gardens and markets. Here are a few you can play with behind the bar:
- Spearmint
The most common cocktail mint—mild, smooth, and slightly sweet. Great for mojitos, juleps, and most recipes. - Peppermint
Sharper and more intense, with a higher menthol content. Best in small amounts or in wintery drinks (think peppermint hot chocolate or minty bourbon sippers). - Apple Mint
Mellow with a fruity twist. Try it in lighter drinks with vodka, white wine, or fruit-based spritzers. - Chocolate Mint
Subtle cocoa-mint flavor. Pairs perfectly with coffee, dark rum, chocolate liqueurs, and dessert-style cocktails. - Pineapple Mint
Variegated leaves with a tropical, fruity aroma. Great in tiki drinks or with pineapple, coconut, and lime flavors. - Orange Mint
Minty with a hint of citrus. Try it in mojitos with blood orange, gin spritzes, or citrus-heavy vodka drinks.
Tip: All types can be used interchangeably in most recipes, but some are better suited to specific spirits or seasonal flavors.
Best Ways to Use Mint in Cocktails
- Muddling: Gently press mint leaves with a muddler to release oils without tearing them. Over-muddling can make the drink taste bitter.
- Garnish: A fresh mint sprig adds a fragrant pop to your glass. Slap the sprig gently between your hands before placing it in the drink to release the aroma.
- Infused Syrups: Steep mint leaves in simple syrup for an easy way to add mint flavor without bits of leaf floating around.
Perfect Spirit Pairings
- Rum – Classic combo for mojitos and rum punches
- Bourbon – The star of a southern mint julep
- Gin – Especially with cucumber, citrus, or berries
- Tequila – Adds a cooling contrast to spice and lime
- Vodka – Lets mint shine in clean, refreshing drinks
Flavor Pairings
- Citrus (lime, lemon, grapefruit)
- Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Cucumber
- Watermelon
- Chocolate
- Honey or ginger
Great Mint Cocktails to Try
- Classic Mojito – Mint, lime, rum, sugar, and soda water
- Mint Julep – Bourbon, mint, sugar, crushed ice
- Southside – Gin, mint, lemon juice, simple syrup
- Watermelon Mint Cooler – Watermelon juice, mint syrup, vodka or rum
- Mint-Ginger Sparkler – Mint syrup, ginger beer, splash of lime juice (great mocktail too!)
Mint Tips & Warnings
- Don’t over-muddle! Bruised mint can become bitter.
- Use fresh mint only—dried mint has a very different (and often dusty) flavor.
- Mint spreads quickly in a garden—consider using a pot to contain it if growing your own.
