- Mint Julep cocktails are synonymous with America’s famous horse racing event
- But an online post shows how dramatically the price has risen over the years.
- DailyMail.com provides the latest international sports news.
It wouldn’t be a Kentucky Derby without racegoers sipping Mint Julep cocktails in the stands.
The 150th Kentucky Derby takes place Saturday afternoon, and a wide-open race is expected in Louisville beyond a pair of early betting favorites.
In addition to the horses and big hats, the annual race is known for its beloved Mint Julep, a cocktail composed of bourbon, sugar, water, ice and fresh mint.
Nearly 130,000 of them are estimated to be sold that day as fans make the most of an all-day drinking event at Churchill Downs.
It wouldn’t be a Kentucky Derby without racegoers sipping Mint Julep cocktails
However, one X user has shown how dramatically the price of a Mint Julep has inflated over the years.
According cocktail producer Darren RovellKentucky Derby attendees are forced to pay $22 for a Mint Julep at this year’s event, which is $7 more than it cost in 2016.
In 2006, the cocktail was available at Churchill Downs for just $9, while in 1987 it cost just $4.25.
Incredibly, it sold for only 75 cents in 1940.
It then rose to $1.50 in 1967 before another jump to $3 in 1980.
This year’s Kentucky Derby will begin around 6:57 pm ET in Louisville.