(CNN) The refreshing mint julep has been the traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby since the 1930s, but prices have galloped upwards since then.

It is estimated that about 127,000 of the popular bourbon-based cocktails are served over the two days of the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby festival at Churchill Downs each year.

That calls for about 10,000 bottles of ready-to-serve Old Forester Mint Julep, while about 475,000 pounds of crushed ice and 2,250 pounds of fresh mint will go into making the crowds' favorite tipple.

Or, to put that into perspective, the amount of mint used is heavier than a grand piano.

The standard mint julep costs $15 on Derby Day and comes with a souvenir glass, but punters with deep pockets can splash out up to $2,500 on a deluxe version in a fancy cup etched with the twin spires motif of Churchill Downs.

Read More