Mint Julep

Directions

1. 1
   Put the mint leaves and the sugar in the bottom of a tall glass.
2. 2
   With the handle of a wooden spoon, crush and mash the leaves to extract the flavor.
3. 3
   Fill the glass with crushed (not cubed) ice.
4. 4
   Pour in the bourbon.
5. 5
   Top with a splash of simple syrup.
6. 6
   With a long-handled spoon, jiggle (not stir) to chill and mix.
7. 7
   Garnish with a sprig of mint.
8. 8
   Sip.
9. 9
   Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
10. 10
    Cook until sugar is dissolved, about 2 minutes.
11. 11
    Remove from the heat and cool completely.
12. 12
    Yield: About 1 1/2 cups simple syrup